I / 



ISSUED BY&.C.R.R, ^ AWALU GR 

ACCORCWNO'TO VALLEY' Or^THE 
LATEST SURVEYS 



'CITYof GOD" 

GRAND 
CENTRAL | 1 OEPOT, 




<<B0TT0f^S5 PIT; 



THE 

GREAT CELESTIAL RAILROAD 

FROM THE 

CITY OF SIN TO THE CITY OF GOD: 

THE ONLY DIRECT AND THROUGH LINE: 

WITH A DESCRIPTION OF THE 

CARS, PERSONS, PLACES AND SCENES ON THE ROUTE, 
FROM NOTES TAKEN ON THE WAY; 

CONTAINING ALSO A 

BEIEF DESCRIPTION OF OPPOSITION ROADS 



AN ALLEGORY, |r 

BY REV. OLIN MARVIN OWEN, 

AUTHOR OF "INGERSOLL ANSWERED FROM THE BIBLE," &0. 



" The chariot shall rage in the streets; they shall jostle one against 
another in the broad ways ; they shall seem like torches, they shall run 
like the lightnings."— N ahum ii. i. 

/ COPYRIGHT* ^ 

~™ ( OCT 8 1889 

TJTICA, N. T. 
T. J. GRIFFITHS, PRINTER, 131 GENESEE ST. 
1889. 




Entered according to Act of Congress in the office of the Libra- 
rian of Congress, at Washington, D. C, by 

OLIN MARVIN OWEN, 
In the year of our Lord 1889. All rights reserved. 



INTBODUCTION. 



This is an age of rapid transit. The railroad, steam- 
boat, telegraph, telephone, phonograph, &c, are pecu- 
liarities of our day. Even these do not seem to meet 
the demand of the times. No sooner is a railroad fin- 
ished to a distant point, than some other Company en- 
deavors to reach it by a shorter and quicker route. No 
device is spared to gain a little time in temporal affairs. 
"Were men as eager to economize the moments in making 
preparation for eternity, the world would soon be con- 
verted. The Saviour used striking analogies to illus- 
trate truth. He drew lessons from the air, the earth, 
the sea, the sky, and from the vocations of men. Had 
there been a railroad from Jerusalem to Jericho, He 
who spake of the barren fig-tree, the mustard-seed, the 
ten virgins, and the leaven, would certainly have used 
the iron horse, thundering along his track, to convey 
some important lesson to man. It is not disparaging to 
the great system of gospel truth to illustrate it by any- 
thing legitimate in art, in science, or in nature. The 
devil seizes any device which will arrest attention, and 
lure men into vice. The theatre, the dance, the sample 
room, the beer garden, the den of prostitution, the bad 
book ; in short, all the gates of hell are at first opened 
with glittering surroundings. The enemy of souls 
makes brimstone shine and damnation sparkle, and pic- 
tures the way to hell as a path of ease and glory. Shall 
the children of this world be wiser than the children of 



vi 



INTRODUCTION. 



light? (Luke xvi. 8.) May not truth be presented in 
some novel and yet legitimate manner, in order to ar- 
rest the attention of the people? or must religious 
teachers continue in the same beaten course, never 
changing, like the fowls of the air, which build their 
nests as their ancestors did a thousand years ago ? Shall 
the world, the flesh and the devil be on time, and the 
Christian be too late ? — the former in advance, and the 
latter in the rear ? 

We expect this volume will be both blessed and 
cursed ; but reader, whether you approve or disapprove,, 
see to it that you "give diligence to make your calling 
and election sure." 

This is an age of story reading. More serials are 
printed to-day than in any previous period of the world's 
history ; some of them are good — the mass of them ter- 
ribly destructive to body and soul. Many of them give 
false representations of human life, and paint vice in 
gilded colors. We have endeavored in this work to give 
an allegorical illustration of things as they really exist, 
in both temporal and spiritual matters. To arrest atten- 
tion, to persuade men to stop and think, to shed a little 
light on man's pathway, this volume is sent out with 
the earnest prayer that God may make it a blessing to 
all who peruse its pages. 

OLIN MAKVIN OWEN. 

Utica, 1889 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

CHAPTEE I. 
The City of Sin 9 

CHAPTEE H. 
The Two Great Eoutes 15 

CHAPTEE m. 
The Eev. Dr. Quietus 22 

CHAPTEE TV. 
The Stranger's Exhortation '. 30 

CHAPTEE V. 
The Compromise Station 36 

CHAPTEE VI. 
The Pastor's Call 43 

CHAPTEE VII. 
The Meeting on Penitent Avenue 51 

CHAPTEE VEIL 
The Laodicean ;Church 54 

CHAPTEE IX. 
Across the Ocean 61 

CHAPTEE X. 
Increasing Wickedness of the City of Sin 68 



Viii CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XI. 
The Decision 73 

CHAPTER XII. 
At the Celestial Depot 77 

CHAPTER XIH. 
The Start 88 

CHAPTER XTV. 
Ensnared and Delivered 92 

CHAPTER XV. 
Celestial Springs 98 

CHAPTER XVI. 
Plains of Persecution 101 

CHAPTER XVII. 
Pentecost 104 

CHAPTER XVm. 
Suspension Bridge at Tribulation Gorge 109 

CHAPTER XIX. 
The Angel of Light . 113 

CHAPTER XX. 
Look Out Mountain 117 

CHAPTER XXI. 
The Valley of the Shadow of Death 120 



THE GREAT CELESTIAL RSILR01D, 



i. 

CITY OF SIN. 

It was summer ; not a cloud was visible in the 
heavens, as the sun rolled majestically towards the 
western horizon. The world appeared as beauti- 
ful as any world could under the curse of sin. AIL 
nature had formerly reflected the glories of heaven.. 
The sun had once shone upon an earth undefiled 
by the hand of the destroyer, and upon man pure in 
Eden. Now he shone upon a race with " hearts de- 
ceitful above all things." Man, in the first paradise,, 
occupied a great moral elevation, where he inhaled 
the heavenly breezes. God visit ed this hallowed 
place; there his voice was heard ; there bloomed 
the tree of life ; there unsullied purity reigned. 
The uncursed earth was undoubtedly more beauti- 
ful than at present ; but paradise must have been 
still more attractive. It bore the same relation 
to the rest of nature that the holy of holies did to 
the other portions of Solomon's temple. The 
whole temple was holy, but it had its sanctum 
sanctorum. Earth, with its paradise, was second 
only to that city " which has twelve gates of pearls, 
and a wall great and high." (Rev. xxi. 12.) A 
stranger came to this new world ; he was an in- 
truder, a foreigner ; his name Sin, and he brought 
2 



10 



THE GREAT 



with him the elements of hell. The opening of 
the city gates to him was the signal for its over- 
throw. He came freighted with poison, and man 
fell from the turrets of paradisial towers into the 
deep caverns of human depravity ; from the pure 
atmosphere of heaven into the poisonous and of- 
fensive atmosphere of hell. If a man falls from a 
high building, his bones are broken and his body 
badly mangled. Man by his transgression fell so far 
that it jarred the image of God from his nature, and 
left him full of " wounds and bruises and putrefy- 
ing sores." How great the fall ! How far down ? 
Not until we have measured the distance from the 
twelve gates of pearl down to the iron gates of 
hell can we tell how far man has fallen away from 
his God ; down below the reach of angels and men, 
below every arm save that of omnipotence. When 
man fell, creation felt the shock, and much of the 
former glory and grandeur of the city departed. 
As Pompeii and Herculan6um w ere buried beneath 
the ashes of Vesuvius, so this city came near be- 
ing entombed by its guilt. But even amid the ru- 
ins, there are traces of its former glory. God 
loved the world, though but a wreck of its previ- 
ous greatness. Passing through the ruins of an 
ancient city one sees nothing but crumbling walls 
and desolate palaces. He does not find anything 
upon which to rivet his affections. It is the won- 
der of all ages what God could discover in fallen 
man to love ; but in his word we read, "For God 
so loved the world that he gave his only begotten 
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not 
perish, but have everlasting life." (John iii. 16.) 
The mother loves her child, though it be in the 
tiger's claws, and God loves the race though under 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



11 



the power and dominion of sin. Man, though 
fallen, is a man still. The hunter may wound the 
eagle in its upward flight, but the eagle though 
wounded and bleeding, is still an eagle. Man, 
though "full of wounds and bruises," is yet a man. 
God loved him and desired his salvation. He sent 
his Son into the world. Many rejected him; oth- 
ers accepted him as the great deliverer from sin. 



Along one of the broad avenues of this large 
city Transgressor was leisurely moving, admiring 
the lawns, fine residences and sparkling fountains. 
If the natural world under the curse appears so 
beautiful to eyes dimmed by sin, how grand must 
it have been for perfect natural vision to view the 
uncursed universe, when everything bore the im- 
press of God's holiness. One might read in the 
countenance of this man that his spirit was trou- 
bled. Shall we print his thoughts ? 

" Would that somewhere in this great city could 
be found that which will afford me complete rest 
and satisfaction. I have earthly treasures, am 
prospered in business, own one of the largest mer- 
cantile houses ; I have a fine family, and yet my 
soul is dissatisfied. I have found some happiness 
in sinful pleasure, but have never yet discovered 
that for which my inward nature yearns, complete 
soul rest. And then there is to be an end of all 
these visible things. I shall go hence in a few 
years, and whither am I going ? What" — 

Just then his meditations were interrupted by 
the sight of some large posters — " Another theatre 
I suppose. I have attended them for years, and 
with all their glitter they do not bring the peace 
for which my spirit yearns. I smile at the jokes, 



12 



THE GKEAT 



listen to the music, and there is a momentary grat- 
ification ; but as soon as the curtain drops, the un- 
rest of spirit returns. Is there not something 
somewhere in this vast city that can give ease to a 
troubled heart ; some fountain from which one can 
drink and be fully satisfied?" The plant of soul 
rest had once grown in this world, but Sin had up- 
rooted it, and now it was of foreign growth, a na- 
tive of heaven. The ground had now become the 
natural mother of the weeds, and step -mother of 
the flowers. True happiness was not to be found 
in the whirl of the dance, in the art gallery or pal- 
ace hall. The marble front, with all its embellish- 
ments could not furnish it. The wealthy might 
decorate their tables with the choicest ware, lade 
them with the richest viands, but there was one 
dish riches could not provide. Transgressor real- 
ized this as that good old verse learned at his mo- 
ther's knee was running through his mind : 

<c Oh, where shall rest be found, 

Kest for the weary soul ? 
'T were vain the ocean's depths to sound, 
Or pierce to either pole." 

In this city had lived Solomon, the richest and 
wisest of men ; so great his wealth that when the 
Queen of Sheba returned from Jerusalem she ex- 
claimed to her subjects, " Behold the half was not 
told me." Did Solomon's wealth satisfy him? Go 
ask his opinion of the great city of Sin, and he ex- 
claims : 

"Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." 

Here men had clambered up the pinnacles of fame 
in search of complete happiness, only to meet with 
bitter disappointment. Here they had grasped 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



13 



the bubbles of honor only to see them burst in- 
stantly. 

Fame's peak is a cold, a dreary place, 

Without the aid of omnipotent grace; 

Those who have scaled this rough and ragged mountain 

Tell us fame is but an empty fountain ; 

Confirming the truth of that Book divine, 

Earth's brightest honors for the moment shine; 

Have we found all mountains which on earth stand, 

Save Calvary, in o]d Judea's land? 

Have we visited all climes, both hot and cold, 

Seen the wonders of earth and pyramids old, 

But found not that flower of unfading bloom 

That budded and blossomed from Joseph's tomb, 

We may have gathered some gems, not the best, 

For we have not the pearl of perfect rest. 

The summits of worldly honor, like the high moun- 
tains of earth are covered with perpetual ice and 
snow. Here had lived Croesus, the Caesars, the 
Rothschilds, the Astors, the Vanderbilts, rolling in 
wealth, their riches never quenching their soul 
thirst. Here William B. Astor sat in his office a 
few days before his death, grieving because of a 
decline in rents. Here Vanderbilt, the railroad 
king, amassed his millions, but did this vast sum 
bring peace to his spirit in his last hours ? Nay ; 
around his dying bed his nurse sang at his request, 

"Come ye sinners, poor and needy;" 

and this man of wealth, just stepping into Jordan, 
would repeat the words "poor and needy." Stocks 
and bonds, gold and silver, cannot bring ease and 
comfort to the dying ; but, 

"Jesus can make the dying bed 
Feel soft as downy pillows are." 



14 



THE GKEAT 



Oh, the poverty of riches ! Oh, the poverty of 
the vast city of Sin, with all its resources, its world- 
ly honor, and wealth! How unutterably poor! 
Could a man receive a warranty deed of the earth, 
yet without Jesus he would be dissatisfied and de- 
sire a deed of another world. " "What shall it pro- 
fit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his 
own soul ?" 

The thrones of earth cannot bring soul rest. 
Visit Charles V., Emperor of Spain, who had be- 
come tired of the burden of government, and wea- 
ry with the dissipations of court life. He abdicated 
the throne, renounced worldly glory, retired to a 
monastery, and endeavored by reading and prayer 
to prepare for death. He busied himself by work- 
ing in the garden and making clocks; had his own 
funeral celebrated before his death, that he might 
be better prepared for its coming. O ! the empti- 
ness of earthly glory and honor. Visit President 
Jackson, who is nearing the close of his second 
term. A man calls ; the President does not ap- 
pear at once ; at last he comes in great haste, say- 
ing, "People envy me because I occupy this posi- 
tion, but I tell you, at the end of the second term 
I am glad to get out of it, for it is a perfect hell." 

Eossini, the great actor, after he had played 
"William Tell" five hundred times, was by his 
admirers serenaded, and given a crown of laurels. 
In the midst of this ovation he said to a friend, 
" I would give all this brilliant scene for one hour 
of living joy and comfort." Contrast this with the 
testimony of Isaac Watts, sick and persecuted as 
he is. Ask him what is his spiritual condition, 
and taking up his pen he writes his experience 
thus : 



CELESTIAL KAILROAD. 



15 



4 'The hill of Zion yields 

A thousand sacred sweets, 
Before we reach the heavenly fields 
Or walk the golden streets. 

Then let our songs abound, 

And every tear be dry, 
We're marching through Immanuel's ground 

To fairer worlds on high." 

Who would not prefer Watts' position with Je- 
sus to Rossini's without him ? 

Hear the Psalmist exclaim, " Great peace have 
they which love thy law, and nothing shall offend 
them." (Ps. cxix. 165.) Again he says, " They 
shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of 
thy house, and thou shalt make them drink of the 
river of thy pleasures." (Ps. xxxvi. 8.) Where shall 
true happiness be found if not in the gospel of 
Christ? 

" The depth saith > It is not in me : and the sea 
saith, It is not with me. It cannot he gotten for gold, 
neither shall silver he weighed for the price thereof" 
(Job xxviii. 14, 15.) 

II. 

THE TWO GREAT ROUTES. 

Approaching the posters, Transgressor discov- 
ered that they were different from anything he had 
ever seen. At first he thought they were simply 
theatrical bills, but these thoughts quickly van- 
ished as he began to read : 



16 



THE GREAT 



GEEAT CELESTIAL EAILKOAD 

FROM EARTH TO HEAVEN ! 

SCENEKY UNEQUALLED! 

Via Ml. Sinai, Mt. Calvary, Safety Tunnel, Celes- 
tial Springs, Pentecost, Suspension Bridge, 
. Niagara of Free Grace, Lookout 
Mountain c&c, c&c. 

Through the "Valley of the Shadow of Death," and over Jordan 

BY DAYLIGHT ! 
To the Grand Central Station in the City of God, 

WITHOUT CHANGE OF CARS. 

The Only Theough Line. All Coaches Fiest Class, 
Palace. No Accidents, Blockades, Collisions oe Delays. 

CONDENSED TIME TABLE. 

4 4 Behold now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of 
salvation." (2 Cor. vi. 2.) 

Expeess teain staets immediately from the Depot, on cor- 
ner of Faith and Penitent Avenues. 

FAEE. — Thy Sins. No Free Passes. All trains 
will reach the City of God in time for the " Marriage 
Supper of the Lamb." 

" He that believe th and is baptized shall be saved." — Bible. 

N. B. — No " ballast" or ' < construction" trains on this line, as 
the road-bed and track are perfect. None but the best fbee 
geace extension eail used. Perfect soul rest guaranteed to all 
travelers. No danger from hot journals, boiler explosions, or 
careless employees. An omniscient eye constantly guards the 
entire route. " He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor 
sleep." (Ps. cxxi. 4.) 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



17 



" Perfect soul rest! I would give my beautiful 
residence on Pleasure Avenue could I obtain this 
blessing." Transgressor felt as did one Congress- 
man, an infidel, who said he would crawl on his 
hands and knees to the Hudson river, about one 
hundred and fifty miles distant, could he find per- 
fect peace. 

No individual can disregard God's claims, and 
enjoy true peace of mind. Transgressor's name 
and moral condition harmonized. This word is 
from two Latin words, trans, across, and gradi, to 
walk. Hence, a transgressor is one who walks 
across or over something. A transgressor of the 
civil law is one who walks over it. A transgressor 
of God's law, is one who tramples it under his 
feet. 

" Perfect rest!" thought Transgressor, "how 
can I hope for it ? A sense of insecurity is one of 
the greatest enemies to my happiness. Did I re- 
ally believe what this Line promises, I would start 
at once." 

True Christian experience brings a feeling of 
safety, which the man of the world has not. 

"Lord, how secure and blest are they 

Who feel the joys of pardoned sin; 
Should storms of wrath shake earth and sea, 

Their minds have heaven and peace within." 

" Penitent Avenue ? I have never been there, 
but when a child I used to hear the minister speak 
of that station. But what is this ?" — and he read 
an unvarnished description of the Route to De- 
struction, which had been posted by some Chris- 
tian workers to arouse the people. Had the ene- 
my of all righteousness written this notice, he 
would have pictured the road to hell as one of 
glory. 



18 THE GREAT 

DESTEUCTION LINE ! 

FAST ROUTE TO RUIN!! 

Down Grade, Broad Guage, Quick Time, No Brakes. 

TEEEIFIC SCENEKY! 

Via Dime Noveltown, Gilded Sin Pavilion, Theatre 
Goers' Palace, Moderate Drinker's Avenue, 
Dancing Plateau, Smokers' Furnace, 
Brothelton, Drunkard' s Pass, &c. 

Specials from Self-Destruction Precipice. Light- 
ning Express from Suicide Gorge. All trains pass 
through Dismal Swamp, reaching The Valley of the 
Shadow of Death 

AT MIDNIGHT ! 

Plunging the passengers into Eternal Darkness. The 
only telegram ever coming back over this line is this 
single word, "LOST." 

Main Depot — Corner of Unbelief and Disobe- 
dience Avenues. 

m* EXTRA TRAINS ON SUNDAY ! 

This route connects at Libertine Landing with 
all night-boats to Perdition. 

FAKE THY SOUL. 

" He that believeth not shall be damned." — Bible* 
Prince of Darkness, G. P. A. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



19 



" Here, then," mused Transgressor, " are two 
ways out of the city — two great destinies then 
are before every man — one of light or one of dark- 
ness — one of glorious emancipation, or one of 
dreadful bondage. "Which shall I take ? It is in 
my power to place a crown on my head and a harp 
in my hand. I am a citizen of this city, with a 
wicked heart. How came I with such an evil na- 
ture is not the most important question ; but how 
can I have that nature changed. How can I es- 
cape the wrath to come, and reach heaven." 

While he was musing, Impetuosity came up in 
a great rush, glanced at the bills, and hurried off 
to the Celestial Station. Transgressor was more 
deliberate. He would consider the matter well 
before leaving. He wended his way slowly home- 
ward. 

He reached home just as the golden king was 
sinking behind the western hills. It was the 
death-bed of a day. How beautiful as the sun 
paints the western horizon with colors such as no 
human artist can equal. Silently and majestically 
he sinks behind the silver-tipped hills, pouring his 
last lingering rays through the leaves of the moun- 
tain forest, kissing the etherial blue of heaven. 
Now he is gone from sight, and still his brilliant 
beams stream up the sky like a vast midnight con- 
flagration on some distant plain. Lower the flames 
are falling, fainter and fainter they become, until 
the shadows begin to steal over the earth, and the 
shining stars peep forth from behind their blue 
curtains. Farewell, orb of day ; the w eary world 
is retiring to rest. The little songster, worn with 
the day's frolic, sits quietly perched in the branch- 
es of the distant tree. The hum of the city has 
ceased, and everything seems to be going to rest 



20 



THE GREAT 



save the great deep of Transgressor's soul. His 
fine mansion, with, its beautiful gardens and spark- 
ling fountains, never appeared less attractive. He 
must soon leave all these earthly comforts. There 
was one carriage in which all must ride. He could 
not take his earthly home with him, and he had 
no assurance of a better one in the world to come. 
A mansion on earth, but none in heaven. The 
tea bell rang. He went to the table, but not to 
eat. He took up the evening paper, but scarcely 
knew what he read. 

" What is the matter ?" said a pleasant voice. 

" O, nothing much." The pride of his heart 
prevented his acknowledging, even to his compan- 
ion, that he felt himself to be a sinner. He retired, 
hoping that " tired nature's sweet restorer " might 
bring quiet to his spirit ; but night, wrapped in her 
sable robe, stole softly to his couch and whispered 
in his ear, " Eternity !" He awoke suddenly. 
" Oh!" thought he, "were it not for this dread of 
the hereafter, I could content myself to die as the 
beast ; but this flashes before my vision, driving 
sleep from my eyes. Each hour seems an age. 
Bitter the thought of ' being banished from the 
presence of God and the glory of his power.' " The 
shades of night once more conquered, and he 
closed his eyes only to be aroused again by a 
voice saying, 

"My Spirit shall not always strive with man." 

He desired that this messenger should cease 
troubling him ; yet he was not fully willing to 
have the gentle monitor take his departure. The 
greatest calamity that can befall any human being 
is to have God answer this dreadful prayer, "Let 
me alone /" for when once answered, the soul is 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



21 



doomed. Transgressor mused, " I can repent 
now, and have an eternity of bliss ; or take the 
world as my portion, and regret it in eternity. But 
how can I leave ? What will people think of me 
if I take the Celestial Line ? Perhaps the morn- 
ing light will bring rest to an aching heart;" and 
his eyes closed again only to dream of red flags,, 
broken bridges and terrible disasters. At last he 
dreamed the day of judgment had come. He saw 
the shining hosts at the right hand of God, and 
heard them singing, " Unto him that loved us and 
washed us from our sins in his own blood, and 
hath made us kings and priests unto God and his 
Father, to him be glory and dominion for ever and 
ever. Amen." (Rev. i. 5.) At the left were the re- 
jecters of Christ, who were moving with solemn 
tread towards the realm of darkness. Many happy 
beings had received their plaudit, " "Well done." 
Transgressor shrank from going into the immedi- 
ate presence of the Judge. He endeavored to se- 
crete himself behind an humble saint, but was 
soon discovered ; after which he tried to hide be- 
hind an angel. The Judge with his all-searching 
eye saw him, and calling his name, said, " How 
earnest thou in hither not having a wedding gar- 
ment?" (Matt. xxii. 12,) "and he was speechless." 
The Judge with solemn emphasis commenced to 
pronounce the sentence, " Bind him hand and 
foot, and take him away" — and Transgressor 
awoke suddenly. He paced the floor. His past 
life rolled before him, as he thought of the eternity 
beyond. He felt as did David when he exclaimed, 
" The sorrows of death compassed me, and the 
pains of hell gat hold upon me." (Ps. cxvi. 3.) O, 
for more of these Scriptural awakenings. Trans- 
gressor went to the window and looked up to the 



22 



THE GREAT 



shining stars ; not one seemed to sparkle for him. 
God had been speaking to him in dreams and vis- 
ions. It would sometimes seem as if the Holy 
Spirit could not arrest the attention of the sinner 
during his waking hours long enough to bring him 
to consider eternal things. In the morning Trans- 
gressor arose, but not refreshed ; his first mental 
inquiry was, " Is there not some other route to the 
Holy City, or does the Celestial Line monopolize 
all the travel to Heaven ? From most large cities 
there is more than one railroad to the same des- 
tination, and there must be some competing line 
whose regulations are not so strict, and over which 
can be taken some of the sinful pleasures of the 
world. Possibly the Celestial Route is the safest, 
but it is not very popular, in this city at least. 
The Directors of the Road are not very highly es- 
teemed, and I am not yet quite willing to be 
counted as an humble follower of Christ." He 
did not yet realize that Jesus was " the name high 
over all." He had not fully comprehended the 
words of Paul, " "Wherefore God also hath highly 
exalted him, and "given him a name which is above 
every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee 
should bow, of things in heaven, and things in the 
earth, and things under the earth." (Phil. ii. 9, 10.) 
Yea, the chief attraction of heaven does not con- 
sist in the evergreen mountains, the angels, nor 
the archangels, but Jesus is the grand central 
figure of all the glory land. 

III. 

THE REV. DR. QUIETUS. 

On the way to his office that morning he met 
the pastor of Worldly-minded Church. "Good 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



23 



morning, Doctor." " Good morning/' said the 
Eev. Dr. Quietus. 

Transgressor, I am very much perplexed. For 
several days I haye been thinking of the necessity 
of a preparation for the future world, and desire 
your opinion concerning the best route to the Ho- 
ly City. Yesterday I saw flaming notices of two 
great thoroughfares ; one, the Celestial Line to 
Heaven, the other the Destruction Boad to Hell. 
On one of these routes I must go. If I reject the 
Celestial Line, it seems to me I am doomed and 
lost. Last night I could not sleep ; a voice seemed 
to be speaking to me continually. I realize I am 
a sinner, and exposed to danger. I have slighted 
God's mercy for years, and yet I hesitate to take a 
position on the Lord's side. I can hardly endure 
the reproach of becoming an earnest Christian. 
It is too humiliating. Tou know I am highly es- 
teemed in this city, having a large circle of friends, 
and doing an extensive business. I own a fine 
residence on one of the best avenues. My fellow 
citizens would deem it singular for me to become 
a devoted disciple of Jesus. Still I greatly desire 
to have this burden removed from my spirit. I do 
want to reach the Holy City ; but is there not 
some easier route to that place ? 

" Certainly," replied the Doctor. " I have as- 
sisted a great many who were in your dilemma. 
Calm your fears, and I will show you ' a more ex- 
cellent way.' I am glad you are aroused to the 
necessity of reaching heaven and escaping hell, 
but it is not necessary to be quite so much 
alarmed, or to heed everything advocated by the 
Celestial Line — as you will see by this poster 
which we are approaching ;" and he pointed to a 
large notice which Transgressor had not seen. 



24 



THE GEEAT 



COMPEOMISE BOUTE. 

CITY OF SIN TO THE HOLY CITY, 

Via Lukewarm Plain, Sinful .Pleasure Heights, 
Covetous Mountain, Love of Ease Valley, 
Carnal Delight Realm, <&c, <&c 

THEOUGH TICKETS, 

ON WHICH PASSENGERS ARE ALLOWED TO STOP OVER AT 
ANY STATION. 

Dancing, the Social Glass, and Gaming, not 
Prohibited. The Ccnnpariy study only to please 

All grades of cars run, viz : Palace, First, Sec- 
ond and Third Class, Emigrant, Freight,- 3 Construc- 
tion Trains, &c. Palace Sleeping and Smoking 
Cars on all Fast Trains. 

Accommodation Trains Every Hour. 
F AEE. 

This varies according to train, grade of car and 
seat occupied. Prices range from $1.00 to $10.000 o 
Liberal discount to men of wealth and high posi- 
tion. 

Main Depot — At Self- Exaltation Square 

70§~ Excursion Trains at Reduced Rates during (the Summer 
and Holiday Season. 

A limited number of Passes issued annually to those who ad- 
vertise us largely, or otherwise reciprocate the favor. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



25 



" There/' exclaimed Transgressor, " I thought 
there must be some such route." 

" Most assuredly/' exclaimed the Doctor, " there 
is no necessity for so much apprehension of dan- 
ger. In apostolic days men believed no one could 
be a true disciple of Jesus without repentance and 
an unwavering faith in Christ, a faith which led 
them to obey him in all things. Indeed, until re- 
cently people have been taught that they must 
separate themselves from all sin in order to be true 
Christians. The ancient worthies deemed it im- 
portant to pass through the ' strait gate.' This 
may have been necessary in that age, but ' old 
things are passed away.' Humanity now are 
more cultured and enlightened, and we may evade 
the 6 strait gate' and the cross, and reach heaven 
with little opposition. This is a well established 
route, and eminently respectable. The old post- 
ers were nearly w^orn out, and it was decided at 
our last society meeting to place new ones through- 
out the city. The name of the road is the Com- 
promise Line." 

Transgressor. But why called thus ? 

Dr. Quietus. You have undoubtedly seen the 
word Compromise painted in large letters on the 
side of freight cars. This indicates that the under- 
gearing is so made that it can be adjusted to any 
track. A car may start from New York and run 
to almost any depot in the nation by simply con- 
tracting or widening the gearing, adjusting it to a 
broad or narrow gauge track. This is a great ad- 
vantage, and saves much time and labor in shift- 
ing freight. The Spiritual Compromise line is 
constructed on this principle. We widen or con- 
tract according as we are to please conservatives 
or radicals ; thus you see we are able to run our 
3 



26 



THE GKEAT 



cars on any track, with the expectation of reach- 
ing heaven, excepting, perhaps, the Celestial Line, 
and onr passengers have no desire to go over that 
road. 

Transgressor. Brit why are your cars excluded 
from their track ? 

Dr. Quietus. Hundreds of years ago this Com- 
pany obtained the exclusive control of the route. 
In order to do this they were obliged to bind them- 
selves not to allow sin upon it. Hence it is writ- 
ten in their By-Laws, " The unclean shall not pass 
over it." (Isa. xxxv. 8.) They use but one grade 
of cars. On our line we have different grades — 
palace, first and second class, accommodation and 
emigrant cars. We thus enable the high-headed 
to ride entirely separate from the common people. 
We also have Construction and ballast trains con- 
tinually in readiness, in case of accidents. The 
President of the Celestial Road is no respecter of 
persons. Those who go that way believe in one 
God, and one mediator between God and man, the 
man Christ Jesus, and that all must be saved 
through Christ, or not saved at all. They insist 
upon repentance, restitution, and an unwavering 
faith in the Directors of the road. You perceive 
it must be a very rough and dismal route. The 
Company are very strict, and the passengers are 
obliged to forsake all their sins. They cannot 
take even their little sins, as there are no baggage 
cars on the road. Our line has them attached to 
every train. 

Transgressor. But does not the Bible teach sep- 
aration from sin, the necessity of the new birth, 
and the doctrine of personal holiness ? 

Dr. Quietus. The Bible mentions these merely 
as incidentals ; but such requisites are not abso- 



CELESTIAL KAILKOAD. 



27 



lutely necessary ; indeed, who believes a man must 
dedicate all to God in order to reach heaven ? 
These sentiments were uttered thousands of years 
ago. If the Lord should give us a new revelation, 
it would be a modified one, one that is in harmony 
with the progressive spirit of the age. 

Transgressor. It seems a little strange, Doctor, 
that these things should be left in the Bible, if 
they are not to be heeded. Why does not the 
Lord strike them out ? It hardly seems probable 
that God would leave such a written revelation for 
man to read, and then intend that he should obey 
some revelation not written. 

Dr. Quietus. (After a moment.) But the Celes- 
tial Road is not up to the times. These old teach- 
ings are the fossils of former ages. Man had not 
then reached that stage of development which 
he has since attained. He does not now require 
so much plain teaching. The Directors of the 
Compromise Road accept the Bible as a founda- 
tion, just as a city has its Charter, By-Laws, and 
Ordinances, for its government, and yet many of 
the details are a dead letter. The people do not 
expect to live up to all of them, and no one is ar- 
rested for their violation ; for instance, the laws 
relating to Sunday observance, the use of profane 
language, or the building of fires in the streets af- 
ter dark. These small items are disregarded in 
municipal affairs, even by those who consider 
themselves good citizens. The Directors of the 
Compromise Road accept the Bible as a basis of 
truth, but expect some of the details will be con- 
sidered a dead letter. Indeed, how could there 
be any liberty for a man without transgressing 
some of the commandments found in the Bible ? 
While we do not accept the doctrine of free 



28 



THE GEEAT 



thought, as generally understood, we studiously 
avoid that which will give offense, and endeavor 
in all things to please the people. 

Transgressor. But have you been over this road, 
so you know that it runs clear through into the 
Holy City ? 

Dr. Quietus. W-e-1-1, no ; I have rode up as far 
as Change of Purpose Plain, Baptismal Font and 
Ordination Heights. But I have been assured by 
those older and more experienced than myself, 
and even by our esteemed bishop, that this line 
extends clear through, and is quite as safe as any 
route. Indeed, some consider it safer, as there is 
no danger of running into the Gulf of Fanaticism 
or Chasm of Insanity. Rumor says the excite- 
ment of riding on the Celestial Line is so great 
that it occasionally unbalances the intellect. Hav- 
ing never rode upon it, I do not speak from expe- 
rience. 

Transgressor thought it a little strange that a 
Doctor of Divinity had never known Christ as a 
personal Saviour. At length he said, "I place 
very little reliance upon what rumor says ; if there 
be such a thing as ' true holiness,' I cannot believe 
it operates in this manner. My Christian mother 
used to say that people would embrace a part of 
Bible truth mixed up with some error, and then 
their hobby would run away with them ; infidelity 
would charge their wreck upon the Christian re- 
ligion. She said it was possible for people on the 
way to heaven, through overwork or great trouble, 
to break down their constitutions and become in- 
sane ; but that the real grace of God never unbal- 
anced the human mind. She had much trouble, 
passed through many years of affliction, and I 
have often heard her say in my boyhood days, that 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



29 



but for lier trust in Christ, and the support of the 
everlasting arms, she would have gone down in 
middle life. She said, when people became fanat- 
ics it was because they had switched off from the 
main line. The statistics of the asylums trace 
most of the insanity to its legitimate source, sin. 
It seems to me that insanity is one of the effects of 
the fall, and cannot in any way be charged to the 
remedial scheme of human redemption. I am an 
unconverted man in search of light, but cannot 
believe that ' pure religion,' if there be such a 
thing, crazes the intellect." 

Dr. Quietus. But the Celestial Eoad is not as 
accommodating as we are. On our line you can 
contract the gearing on Saturday night, run at 
lightning speed all day Sunday towards heaven, 
and on Monday morning widen the gearing, attend- 
ing the theatre Monday evening, and all other 
places of amusement during the week. During 
Lent you may contract and be very religious, nei- 
ther dance, play cards, attend shows, nor wear 
jewelry; but after Easter you can widen out, and 
go on as before. Tou may count beads, say pray- 
ers and go to mass early Sunday morning, and 
spend the rest of the day in carousing. In short, 
on our road you can do as you please, that is so 
far as is consistent with decency. We have also 
strong baggage cars, while the Celestial Line has 
thrown them all off, insisting that all baggage must 
be left in the city of Sin. 

Transgressor. But did I not notice on the bill 
something in reference to smoking cars ? 

" Yes," said the Doctor, as he took out and 
lighted his cigar, " but they are entirely separate 
from the other coaches, so as not to annoy those 
who do not smoke. "We have also ' light wines ' 



30 



THE GEEAT 



c for the stomach's sake,' " he continued, with an 
air which seemed to say, I am no bigot. "And fur- 
ther, our Company issue £ stop over tickets,' ena- 
bling one to pause at Sinful Pleasure Heights, and 
all other points of interest on the route. The Ce- 
lestial Eoad do not allow this ; indeed, their 
rules are so strict as to exclude many who would 
otherwise go with them." 

IV. 

THE STRANGER'S EXHORTATION. 

Just then a stranger approached and joined in 
the conversation. Dr. Quietus recognized him, 
though Transgressor did not. The stranger en- 
tered the discussion with such earnestness as to 
draw together a throng ; and there in front of the 
large Compromise poster the agent of the Celestial 
Line was advocating its merits to the disadvan- 
tage of all competing routes. He preached a Je- 
sus "mighty to save." He spoke of one who 
could so regenerate and sanctify the moral nature 
of man that he would have no desire to travel by 
any other than the Celestial Line. Dr. Quietus 
remains silent. " We have no changeable gear- 
ing," said the Celestial Railroad agent, " since we 
read in the Old Testament, ' I am the Lord, I 
change not ' (Mai. iii. 5), and in the New, ' Jesus 
Christ the same yesterday, to-day and forever. 5 
(Heb. xiii. 8.) We dare not take from or add to 
the word of the Lord, for we read fearful denun- 
ciations against this class. (Rev. xxii. 19.) We 
recognize no denominational line as such. While 
denominations are the legitimate result of honest 
differences of opinion, yet Christianity is one. We 
deem the holy catholic church to be of greater im- 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



31 



portance than mere sectarianism. We counten- 
ance no Presbyterian, Baptist, or Methodist road ; 
it is the Celestial Salvation line. The various de- 
nominations have cars on this route, but not all 
who are members of these churches or who pro- 
fess religion are on the way to the Holy City. It 
matters little by what name the flower be called, 
provided it is a flower, and not a thistle. All true 
believers are one, whatever the name by which 
they are known. In Noah's ark there were sev- 
eral different rooms, and yet but one ark ; so there 
may be different departments in the visible church, 
while there is but one true church. It is one 
thing to belong to the visible church merely, it is 
quite another to be a member of the church of 
the first born, whose names are written in heaven. 
I have joined the latter church, not on probation, 
as the Methodists say, but in full connection. The 
parable of the wise and foolish virgins teaches 
that not all who profess to be Christ's will be 
saved. ' Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, 
Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but 
he that doeth the will of my Father which is in 
heaven.' (Matt. vii. 21.) We exclude sin, as no- 
thing unholy can enter the City of God. It is 
written in the Eegulations, And there shall in no 
wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither 
whatsoever worketh abomination or maketh a lie. 
(Eev. xxi. 27.) The very idea of Gospel Salvation 
implies that one is to be delivered from some- 
thing. Salvation in sin is a contradiction. We 
might as consistently speak of holy devils. Were 
we to take on board one who refused to obey the 
regulations it would create confusion all along the 
line, and in a short time the whole City of Sin 
would be going up over this road in their sins, and 



32 



THE GREAT 



the Holy City would be transformed into pande- 
monium. When the Roman Emperor Pompey 
could not prevail upon an enemy to billet his 
army, he would persuade them to admit a few 
weak maimed soldiers, who soon recovering their 
strength would open the gates to the whole army. 
Were we to take on board the maimed soldiers, or 
the little sins, the whole road would soon be under 
the control of the devil. ' Ye cannot serve God 
and Mammon,' said he who spake as never man 
spake. Other lines may allow you to divide your 
time between God and the devil, but the Celestial 
Road demands all our time. We believe in abid- 
ing in Christ — not being in a state of grace one 
day and out of it the next. A little boy was 
observed to dance on one foot, holding the other 
in his hand, while his sister was playing the piano. 
When asked why he did not dance on both feet, 
he replied, pointing to the foot in his hand, This 
foot belongs to the church. So with multitudes 
of professed Christians who are trying to serve 
God and Mammon at the same time, which our 
Lord declared to be impossible. A merchant was 
waiting upon a very annoying customer, and final- 
ly gave vent to his feelings thus : ' If I were not a 
Christian I would swear at you, but as I am I can- 
not. However, if you will step down stairs I will 
get my partner, who is not a Christian, to swear at 
you.' The passengers on the Celestial Road have 
all disposition to swear removed. They do not 
refrain from it through fear of church discipline, 
but because God has removed the swear from their 
natures. Some roads require you to be very pi- 
ous for forty days in the year. On our line Lent 
continues the year round. Our passengers have 
no desire for sinful pleasures. Neither do they 



\ 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



33 



start on the journey as an experiment. None but 
through tickets are sold. On the Compromise 
Line free passes are issued to privileged charac- 
ters. We make no variation in price, and the Di- 
rectors are no respectors of persons. The Celes- 
tial Line is a very happy one, and not as Dr. Qui- 
etus has said, a very gloomy route. We have 
'righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost,' 
and sometimes an extra thrown in, such as £ joy 
unspeakable and full of glory.' Our road study 
more to save than to please. In reference to the 
Compromise Line being the most refined, there 
can be no true refinement only where Jesus of 
Nazareth has trod, and where his gospel has been 
introduced. Greece and Rome tried civilization 
without the gospel, and failed. "What are heathen 
nations prior to its introduction ? The true gos- 
pel needs none of the paint of modern philosophy 
to embellish it ; it requires no stay -lathing, and 
cannot be improved. It took centuries to com- 
plete this road, and the last rail was laid when Je- 
sus cried on the cross, ' It is finished.' The first 
train under the new dispensation pulled out of the 
city with three thousand converts on board. 

We use but one grade of cars, but they are of 
the first grade, built for the comfort and happi- 
nese of the passengers. "We admit that it is a 
very old line. The difficulty with our Guide Book 
is not that it is so far behind the times. It is 
ahead of this age, and when all men reach that 
point when they can keep the Golden Rule and live 
up to the New Testament standard of piety, we 
shall have struck the millenial glory. 

We have no smoking cars, as we find smoke 
enough in the world already. Our line is estab- 
lished to carry people up out of the fog and smoke 



34 



THE GREAT 



of the City of Sin. Many a dude, whose clothes 
fit as if he had been melted and poured into them, 
thinks he is smoking ' pure Havanas 5 when he is 
burning brown paper soaked in a decoction of to- 
bacco. To carry the deception to the highest 
point of art, the paper is embossed and stamped 
over a roller with the exact impression in fac sirn,- 
ile of the tobacco leaf. It is far more sensible to 
have praying cars than smoking cars. We believe 
in heeding the injunction in the Guide Book, 
* Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, 
let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the 
flesh and spirit, pertecting holiness in the fear of 
God.' (2 Cor. vii. 1.) Neither do we tolerate light 
wines. Our motto is, Total abstinence for the in- 
dividual, moral suasion for the drunkard, and pro- 
hibition from shore to shore. Prohibition is strict- 
ly enforced all along our line. The majority of 
accidents which occur on opposition roads are the 
result of drunken employes. Other roads tolerate 
light wines, but they prove heavy enough to wreck 
the bodies and souls of men. Policy ministers 
advocate the moderate use of intoxicants. Liquor 
men publish and circulate these statements to fur- 
ther their own interests. We hate the moderate 
glass, as it is the cause of all immoderate glasses. 
It is the child when first born, and needs to be 
killed at once. Beastly drunkenness is no temp- 
tation to a sober man. The fiend comes first in the 
cut glass goblet, which appears to be tinted with the 
rosy tints of the morning, but is rather tinged with 
the fires of hell. Under the blazing chandelier, 
before the flashing mirror, with the blandishments 
of polite society thrown around the glass, it be- 
comes a successful snare. There is the same dif- 
ference between a moderate drinker and a drunk- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



35 



arcl that there is between a pig and a hog. The 
one is, the other will be if he lives long enough ; 
the one has just started, the other has got there. 
The very ones who start a man downward will 
spurn him from their presence after his appetite 
becomes uncontrolable. Opposition roads dub us 
' narrow gauge,' and we are. We rejoice that the 
way to heaven is so narrow it will not admit of any 
sin, and yet it is so broad that all the world may 
enter it if they will. The gospel is so lowly that 
the vilest sinner can be saved by its power, and 
yet so elevated the tallest angel before the throne 
cannot reach it ; so simple that the wayfaring men 
though fools need not err therein, and yet so com- 
plex that the wisest sage cannot solve its myste- 
ries. It is a great salvation. The Celestial is the 
only absolutely safe route, the only line on which 
the track is never blockaded. We never stop for 
heavy storms, but put on steam and go ahead. 
Those who have written back corroborate the 
statement of the Company, that the road is per- 
fectly safe, and the track very smooth — not that 
our passengers are without trials and temptations, 
but they have grace to endure them. Those who 
retain their tickets and obey the rules are sure to 
reach the City of God. The road-bed is solid, the 
track being laid on the Rock of Ages. There are 
no collisions, as the trains all move in the same 
direction. No construction or ballast cars are ever 
used. The Great King made the road perfect. 
In conclusion, we have the authority of the oldest 
and most reliable Guide-Book, the Bible, that the 
Compromise line is not a through route. (Dr. 
Quietus blushes.) It leaves its passengers just 
outside of the city, to be carried in by an omni- 
bus, as will be seen by referring to the only au- 



36 



THE GREAT 



thentic map. This old chart the Directors of the 
Compromise road do not often exhibit, unless it 
be as a curiosity or relic of the past. They use 
maps issued from the press of Time Server & Co. 
We accept nothing but the old chart published by 
the Celestial Line thousands of years ago. We 
believe the ' old is better it carries with it a 
6 Thus saith the Lord.' ' Be not deceived ; God is 
not mocked ; for whatsoever a man soweth that 
shall he also reap. 5 " (Gal. vi. 7.) 

At the close of his exhortation he announced 
that a series of meetings were in progress at the 
Celestial Chapel on Penitent Avenue, and cordial- 
ly invited all to attend. The throng dispersed ; 
Dr. Quietus, as he left Transgressor, invited him 
to attend his church next Sabbath. Transgressor 
and the Compromise bill-poster walked away to^- 
gether. " That man, said the latter, " must be an 
advertising agent of the Celestial Boad ; there is 
no necessity of such exactness in the service of 
Christ. The love of the world, fame and wealth, 
are to be sought after in this world. A profession 
of religion may be assumed as a convenience, and 
a passport to heaven when we come to die. Sup- 
pose a man does incur some risk, he will have a 
splendid time going through this world any way." 
They parted at Indecision Square. 

V. 

THE COMPBOMISE STATION. 

Transgressor returned homeward. The world 
looked attractive ; its honor and applause were 
desirable, and he thought the Celestial agent must 
be mistaken. " Perhaps he views the subject from 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



37 



a wrong stand-point," mused he, and " suppose I 
should fail to reach the City of God, multitudes of 
intelligent and respectable people will be excluded 
with me. It can hardly be possible, after one has 
taken so much pains to make the journey on the 
Compromise Line, that the gates of heaven will 
be closed against him." 

On reaching home he related what had hap- 
pened during the day. He felt that he must do 
something. Conscience had been too thoroughly 
aroused to be lulled immediately to sleep. " I will 
try the Compromise Line," thought he, "and if it 
proves a failure I can return and take some other 
route." His family readily consented to accom- 
pany him. There was no cross in going on this 
route ; one could take his worldly pleasures with 
him. A few mornings after, and a hack and heavy 
baggage wagon were at the door. Both were well 
filled, and whirled away to the Compromise depot. 
This was a spacious building, profusely decorated 
inside and out. Within, the walls were covered 
with paintings of scenes along the route. An un- 
usually large number were at the station, as 
Rev. Dr. Tickle Ear, a smooth-tongued revivalist, 
had been in the city conducting services at the 
Temple of Mammon. He had induced a multi- 
tude to assume a profession of religion, without a 
change of heart, and they were about to leave the 
city. Here was the millionaire and the pauper ; 
the former received many tokens of respect ; the 
latter, though his equal in intellectual power, was 
barely noticed. Alas, how often people bow and 
scrape to money and clothes instead of the man. 
Here were prominent doctors and lawyers, belles 
of fashion, worldly philosophers and moralists. 



38 



THE GREAT 



In the waiting-room, lazily seated upon an easy 
conch, was a group of dainty Christians singing : 

' ' Nothing, either great or small, 
Keinains for me to do; 
Jesus died and paid it all, 
All the debt I owe." 

And they acted as if they had nothing to do but 
lie down on the gospel, and be carried to the skies 
in their sins. 

Mrs. Transgressor's keen eye scrutinized the 
throng. For some time she had said nothing, but 
at length asked her husband, 

" Has not the driver made a mistake ? Have 
we not come to the wrong station?" 

" No," replied Transgressor. " See, the word 
Compromise is printed in large letters over the 
gateway." 

" But," said she, " there must be some mistake, 
for though there are many respectable persons 
here, yet there is a large number with whom I do 
not wish to ride, unless they have reformed," con- 
tinued Mrs. Transgressor, whose sense of consist- 
ency had been shocked. " Their outward appear- 
ance is not a true index to their characters. They 
may be very genteel, and among those unacquaint- 
ed with their lives, they may pass for good Chris- 
tians." 

Transgressor. Perhaps these individuals simply 
came to the station to bid their friends farewell. 

Mrs. Transgressor. No, indeed, as all whom I 
have seen have purchased tickets. Fraudulent is 
here, finely attired, and you know how often he 
has failed in business dishonestly. Mrs. Sensible 
informed me the other day that he has broken 
down rich, only paying twenty-five cents on the 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



39 



dollar. Neither of us thought his shrewdness 
atoned for his wickedness in defrauding his cred- 
itors. Had he been conducting business honora- 
bly, and after failing made a frank acknowledge- 
ment of his inability to pay, not smuggling his 
property, he might have retained the confidence 
of his creditors ; but he put his money and goods 
out of his hands on purpose to cheat, and lately 
has been conducting business under a friend's 
name. With that money dishonestly gained he 
proposes to journey to heaven ! Is it right for 
him to go to the City of God without confession 
and restitution ? It can hardly be that the mag- 
nificent Compromise Line is a refuge for such ras- 
cals. Another gentleman just purchased tickets 
who keeps an elegant sample room — a refined 
name for a hell-hole. You remember how near he 
came to trapping our oldest boy. He has coined 
his money out of the hard earnings of widows 
and orphans. His dollars are saturated with their 
tears. See his wife — the rustling of her silks 
sounds like the hisses of a serpent. Is he to leave 
without any reparation for his wrong ? This is 
not a prohibition line, is it ? There comes Miserly, 
leaning on his staff. He is a member of an up- 
town church, and rents his magnificent block to 
liquor dealers. He excuses himself by saying, 
' If they do not rent my buildings, they will rent 
some other man's.' Further, he runs a saloon in 
another man's name, not wishing his own to ap- 
pear in connection with the business. 

Transgressor (hastily). Well, what of it, if they 
now are going to discontinue the traffic ? 

Mrs. Transgressor. It does not appear much 
like it, for both of them have ordered their wine 
casks to the baggage car. See, through the win- 



40 



THE GREAT 



dow, they are just being rolled in. They are la- 
beled "light wines," but they have proved heavy 
enough to sink myriads in this city, and what 
proof have we that they will not operate in the 
same manner on the way to the City of God ? 
Think of the possibility of having some intoxi- 
cated en route to heaven ! The love of money has 
closed many church doors in this city, while it has 
kept the saloons open seven days in the week. 
See the ruin the monster Intemperance has 
wrought ; behold the wrecks he has made ; go, 
hear the heart-broken wail of the drunkard's wife; 
listen to the maniac's cry from the barred win- 
dow ; see the poor wretches dragged into police 
court every morning ; read the long list of crimes 
and casualties in every daily paper, caused by 
drink, and then ask me to ride towards heaven 
with people who are in league with this hell- 
fanged, tiger-clawed demon, the liquor-traffic, and 
who have never repented or made any reparation 
for their wrong ? Never. There, too, is the pas- 
tor of the church to which Fraudulent and Miserly 
belong. He is a great big coward ; he dare not 
preach the truth lest his pocket-book feel the 
pinch of the financial thumbscrew. Here are the- 
atre-goers, " lovers of pleasure more than lovers of 
God." This class of people have either come to 
the wrong station, or we have. If all these people 
are going to heaven without any change of heart, 
I have no desire to go. This is a Compromise line 
indeed. It seems more like a Conglomerate line. 
Think of a train starting for the City of God with 
smoking-cars attached, wine-casks in the baggage- 
car, frolicking, dancing and gambling on board ! 
Here is Rev. Dr. Liberal Thinker. He was once 
an orthodox preacher, and very successful in win- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



41 



ning souls ; but lie has imbibed the principles of 
free thought, and, to-day, ridicules the atonement, 
embraces modern evolutionism, and discards fu- 
ture retribution. Do let us go home. A fine res- 
idence in this city, where we know we are unsafe, 
is preferable to a pretended ride towards heaven 
with such a mixed throng, and no positive assu- 
rance that we shall reach the city. I do not be- 
lieve this is a "through line." I remember the 
old Bible at home said, " Wherefore, come out 
from among them and be ye separate, saith the 
Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will 
receive you." (2 Cor. vi. 17.) On the Compromise 
maps the road appears to enter the city ; but on 
reaching home we will examine the old Chart. 
Come, let us be going. Did Dr. Quietus say that 
this was a through line ? 

Transgressor made no response, but busied him- 
self examining several of the tickets, on the face of 
which could be read : 

COMPKOMISE RAILROAD. 

CITY OF SIN TO THE CITY OF GOD. 

GOOD FOB ONE PASSAGE. 

Stop over allowed at any Station. 

Time Seevee, G, T. Agent 

He did not like the signature, but said nothing, as 
his wife had given the route such a severe criti- 
cising. He telephoned for their carriage, and they 
went home. 

About sundown, to the surprise of the neigh- 
bors, Transgressor and his family were driven up 
in front of their mansion on Pleasant Avenue. To 
the numerous questions asked by his friends, 
Transgressor responded evasively, if at all ; but 
4 



42 



THE GREAT 



his wife did not hesitate to give the true reason 
for their return. They had been deceived, and 
she did not wish to go towards heaven on a route 
which tolerated iniquity. She was not slow to un- 
cover its inconsistencies. On entering the house 
Transgressor took down the old Bible, which was 
nearly covered with dust. Had he carefully stu- 
died this before starting, he would have saved 
much time and trouble. This book had not been 
as a " lamp unto his feet and a light unto his 
path." The secular news had absorbed his atten- 
tion more than the book of books. When men are 
in trouble they often consult this oracle. On ex- 
amining the map, he discovered that the Compro- 
mise Line left its passengers just outside of the 
city, to be carried in by omnibus. He also read, 
" And there shall in no wise enter into it anything 
that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomi- 
nation or maketh a lie." (Eev. xxi. 27.) He also 
read the following comment' aloud : 

The Managers of the Compromise Koute have never been able 
to extend their track clear into the City of God, though they 
have repeatedly tried to do so. The Divine Government does 
not deem it expedient, as the baggage brought up over this road 
would mar the golden streets, and the passengers coming over it 
would disturb the harmony of heaven, if permitted to enter in 
their sins. Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people. 

" There," said his wife, " I regret having been 
seen at that station. I prefer to mingle with those 
who make no profession of religion than to be 
numbered among those who profess to be Christ's, 
and in works deny him." 



Time passed on. Transgressor was startled one 
morning as he read in his daily : 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



43 



[by telegeaph.] 
GREAT CRASH ON THE COMPROMISE LINE. 

Several Lives Lost, and many Passengers Injured ! 

Tribulation Goege, Midnight. — The train from the City of 
Sin broke through the bridge at this place, doing immense dam- 
age. Fifty killed and many wounded. For many years the tres- 
tle work at this point has been considered unsafe, but the Com- 
pany have neglected to repair it. They are noted for inattention 
to minor details. Among the killed are Commodore Grasp-All, 
wife and daughters, Rev. Dr. Tickle Ear and the Bishop of the 
Diocese of Worldly Policy. 

Latee! — Cars took fire, and several burned to death, among 
them the pastor of the Church of Mammon. Cause of the dis- 
aster, too much "light wine" taken by employees of the Com- 
pany. We deeply regret this terrible calamity. The Church of 
Mammon is thrown into great mourning. We are advised by a 
private dispatch that Dr. Tickle Ear is not killed, though badly 
injured. We hope he may recover. 

" There," said Transgressor, throwing down his 
paper, " what is a route worth which can take its 
passengers only part way to the City of God, and 
then wreck the train. Such a religion is no bet- 
ter than infidelity. The Bible says, " As far as 
the east is from the west, so far hath he removed 
our transgressions from us." (Ps. ciiL 12.) These 
travelers took their sins with them, and this is the 
cause of their ruin." He was correct ; that route 
only is successful which takes its passengers to 
their destination. If it only starts them towards 
it, it avails little. The Gospel Route pulls its cars 
clear through into the City of God. 

VI. 

THE PASTOR'S CALL. 

One evening as Transgressor was sitting in his 
chair meditating upon the events of the past, Rev, 
Dr. Universalis, pastor of the Church of the Res- 



44 



THE GREAT 



torationists, called. After the usual salutation, he 
commenced upon the subject of religion. 

" I learn that you have abandoned the idea of 
leaving the city, and concluded to become a per- 
manent resident here. Although the Compromise 
Line is practically a failure, I would not advise 
you to remain in this city, as it will some day be 
burned with fire. I dropped in to recommend the 
best of all routes, The Universal Salvation Line. 
A party are going in a few days, and we should 
be happy to have yourself and family join us. The 
route is a very pleasant one, and there will be no 
heavy crosses, and" — 

Transgressor. I cannot reconcile the doctrines 
of your route with all the attributes of God, es- 
pecially his justice ; perhaps it is more easily har- 
monized with his mercy. 

Mrs. Transgressor. No ! no ! God's goodness 
would lead him to exclude from heaven everything 
unholy, not allowing any to enter who did not re- 
pent of all their sins in this world. 

Dr. Universalis. But " God is love," and his 
love is so great that he will not permit any to be 
eternally lost, but will ultimately bring all to dwell 
with him in heaven. The Bible says, " Every 
knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Je- 
sus Christ is Lord." (Phil. ii. 10.) 

Mrs. Transgressor (quickly). Yes, indeed, every 
knee shall bow in the day of judgment. Then, 
even devils shall acknowledge Christ to be Lord 
of all ; but bowing before the Son of God then at 
the throne of justice is very different from bowing 
before the throne of mercy now for pardon. 

Dr. Universalis. I cannot harmonize God's 
goodness with the idea of future retribution, or the 
doctrine of hell. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



45 



" It seems to me it is a mercy that there is such 
a place/' said Mrs. Transgressor, who seemed to 
be quite orthodox, in theory at least. "State 
prisons are a benefit to community; what could 
we do without them in this city ? It will be a mer- 
cy to have the righteous and the wicked separated 
in eternity. The wicked could not enjoy heaven, 
having no relish for spiritual things ; and the pure 
in heart would not choose the wicked for their as- 
sociates. 

Dr. Universalis. Of course God will change 
the moral natures of all men before entering 
heaven. 

Mrs. Transgressor. By what power are they to 
be changed in the other world ? Men die in their 
sins, and give no evidence of any change of heart; 
what power hereafter can give them eternal life ? 
Certainly you do not believe in purgatory. 

The door-bell rings. The pastor of the church 
on Penitent Avenue enters. After a few pleasant 
words, he introduced his friend, the Lord Jesus 
Christ, and discoursed to them on the subject of 
personal salvation. 

"I saw Mr. Transgressor in our meeting the 
other evening, and came in to chat in reference to 
your leaving the city, and to recommend the Ce- 
lestial Line. You have not abandoned all idea of 
leaving, have you ?" 

Transgressor. Not entirely. I have had consid- 
erable feeling on the subject. For years my soul 
has not been at rest. But there are many things 
which perplex me. 

Pastor. Are you willing to devote yourself to 
the service of Christ, relying upon him as your 
personal Saviour? Are you willing to take the 
cross ? 



46 



THE GREAT 



Transgressor. I cannot with all my heart give 
an affirmative answer. We attempted once to go 
by the Compromise Line, but became so disgusted 
at the depot that we came home. If I ever at- 
tempt to be a Christian, I must be a thorough one. 
I cannot accept a worldly religion. 

Pastor. Amen ; glad to hear you speak thus. 
We recommend none but a Saviour who saves to 
the uttermost ; who can take us out of the sinful 
ways of the world, and so change our natures that 
we have no relish for anything forbidden in the 
Word of God. The true Christian's joys are God- 
given and heaven-born. The joy of the Lord be- 
comes our strength, a joy as far above mere earth- 
ly happiness as the heavens are above the earth. 

Addressing Transgressor's wife, he said, " Are 
you a Christian?" She replied in the negative. 

Pastor. " What think ye of Christ?" Why can- 
not you both start on the Celestial Line at once ? 

Mrs. Transgressor. But . we tried the Compro- 
mise Railroad once ; we might as well remain 
here as to go by that road. Yet I desire to have 
my husband's mind at rest, for he has no settled 
peace day or night. 

Pastor. A profession of religion without saving 
grace fails to meet the demand. Many are at- 
tempting to mix the religion of Jesus with the sin- 
ful pleasures of the world, when God has sepa- 
rated them. Some may teach that we can have 
the world and have Christ, "Nevertheless, the 
foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal. 
The Lord knoweth them that are his ; and let ev- 
ery one that nameth the name of Christ depart 
from iniquity." *(2 Tim. ii. 19.) Sin and misery go 
together; holiness and happiness are united by 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



47 



the Lord himself ; and " what God hath joined to- 
gether let not man put asunder." Addressing Dr. 
Universalis, he said, "I trust you are a Chris- 
tian." 

Dr. Universalis. Certainly ; I believe the whole 
race will ultimately be saved. 

Pastor. Have you met with a change of heart ? 
Dr. Universalis. No, sir. 

Pastor. "What did Jesus mean when he said, 
" Ye must be born again " ? 

Dr. Universalis. But Christ is the Saviour of 
all men." " Specially of those that believe," (1 
Tim. iv. 10), added Pastor quickly. " What do 
you think of the new birth?" 

Dr. Universalis. I do not think it absolutely 
essential in this world. 

Pastor. Do you find anything in the Bible pro- 
mising the new birth in the world to come ? I 
read, " After death, the judgment ;" not after 
death, regeneration. 

Dr. Universalis. But we cannot reconcile the 
doctrine of future retribution with the goodness 
of God. 

[Mr. and Mrs. Transgressor were now listening 
eagerly. Perhaps there was a secret desire to 
take the Universal Line if it could be done with 
safety. It would save much time and trouble.] 

" I think," continued Dr. Universalis, "that God 
is so good he will not allow any of his creatures 
to be finally lost. 

Pastor. God is so good he will not allow the 
harmony of heaven and the happiness of his saints 
to be disturbed by the presence of anything that 
is- evil in the Holy City. He will not permit the 
melody of the 144,000 before the throne, the peace 



48 



THE GREAT 



of angels, and the bliss of the spirits of just men 
made perfect, to be disturbed by the presence of a 
single sinner in his sins. The miser, if permitted 
to enter heaven without the new birth, would de- 
sire to tear up the golden streets, unhinge the gates 
of pearl, and start a broker's shop. The belles of 
fashion would be trying to excel the angels in 
finery. The theatre manager would want to rent 
one of the palaces in which to start a show, while 
the thief would steal the crowns of the saints. A 
little girl was told by her father of two children 
who were slain in the woods. She asked, " Where 
did the children go after they were dead ?" He 
said, "To heaven." She said, "After the man 
was hanged who killed them, where did he go ?" 
" Well," said the father, " he went to heaven too." 
"Then," queried the little enquirer, "I wonder if 
he won't kill them again!" God is so kind he will 
not allow that in heaven which would mar the hap- 
piness of his saints. Conduct the beggar, clothed 
in tatters, to the royal palace, place him before 
the king arrayed in gold and seated on his throne, 
his attendants around him dressed in gorgeous ap- 
parel, would he not desire to change his raiment ? 
Take the sinner, in his rags of destitution, and 
place him in the immediate presence of the King 
of kings, stand him beside Gabriel and Michael, 
and the throng that are washed in the blood of the 
Lamb, would he feel at home ? would he not cry, 
"Take me hence?" 

Dr. Universalis, Do you think God will send 
the sinner to perdition ? 

Pastor, No sir ; he sends no man to destruc- 
tion. His Spirit strives with men, and it is only 
on this ground that he could be just in their con- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



49 



demnation. The Holy Spirit urges them to Christ. 
If they accept, they are saved ; if not, they seal 
their own doom. Life and death are placed be- 
fore man ; if he chooses death he ruins himself. 
Every man carries the key to his own destiny. He 
has it in his power to place a crown on his head and 
a harp in his hand. Two destinies, light or darkness, 
freedom or chains, heaven or hell, await every one. 
If God were to save man without his consent it would 
make of him a mere machine under the supervis- 
ion of the Almighty, as the locomotive is under the 
control of the engineer. That were to destroy 
man's free moral agency ; whereas every individu- 
al is conscious of the power of choice. A railroad 
bridge is gone ; red flags are flung to the breeze ; 
every warning is given ; and yet if the engineer, 
seeing the signal, crowds on more steam, and 
dashes into the abyss, who is to blame? The 
President of the Company? No. The flagman? 
No ; he raised the signal. The conductor ? No ; 
he saw not the danger. Who is responsible ? The 
engineer, who heeded not the warning. The Lord, 
by his word, his Spirit, and his children, apprizes 
man of coming peril, warns him of the broken 
bridge. Signals are displayed, Sinai thunders, 
Calvary calls, man rushes on and plunges into 
hell. "Who is responsible? The Almighty, for 
sounding the alarm? No. The sinner, for not 
heeding the signal. If a man is lost, he destroys 
himself. 

Dr. Universalis. But I believe that all men will 
finally be saved. 

Pastor. People grasp eagerly at the idea of an 
everlasting heaven, but repudiate the doctrine of 
eternal punishment. The idea that men are to 



50 



THE GREAT 



be regenerated after death would make hell a 
redeemer, at least for a portion of the race. The 
Bible teaches that there is none other name given 
among men whereby we must be saved. It is the 
blood of Jesus that saves ; and the song they sing 
in heaven is, " Unto him that loved us and washed 
us from our sins in his own blood." (Rev. i. 5.) 
Not " Unto hell or purgatory that hath washed 
us." Further, who desires to take such a circuit- 
ous route ? "Why go around through perdition, 
when we can go direct ? Doctor, do you have any 
prayer service in your church ? Do you pray in 
your family ? 

Dr. Universalis. Not very often. 

Pastor. Of course there is not much necessity 
for either if all men are to be saved. Neverthe- 
less, Mr. Transgressor, if you are willing we will 
offer a word of prayer ; and while all bowed the 
knee, Pastor poured forth his soul earnestly for 
the salvation of all present. He shook hands with 
them, urged each to take the Celestial Line, and 
bade them good evening. 

" Well, Doctor," said Transgressor, " do you 
think this change of heart to be a reality, or is it a 
creature of the imagination ? Have you ever ex- 
perienced it ?" 

Dr. Universalis. I am not positive. 

Transgressor. Then why persuade us to take a 
line to heaven which does not change the moral 
nature ? If your theory is correct, the whole City 
of Sin is safe ; we shall all ultimately reach the 
better land, though we may have to travel a little 
farther than by some other route. 

Dr. Universalis took his hat and left. 

Mrs. Transgressor. I think Pastor has the true 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



51 



religion. He seems to act as if lie believed the 
Bible. How many preachers there are in this 
city who do not by their sermons or actions indi- 
cate that sinners are in peril. Such men are Dr. 
Quietus, and Dr. Tickle Ear, who was wounded at 
the Compromise disaster. Pity he was not killed. 
Pastor has a different spirit from either. 
Transgressor retired, but not to rest. 

VII. 

THE MEETING ON PENITENT AVENUE. 

Next evening Transgressor was at the meeting 
on Penitent Avenue. As he entered, the congre- 
gation was singing, 

c< The way the holy prophets went, 
The road that leads from banishment, 
The king's high way of holiness, 
I'll go for all his paths are peace." 

In the hall was this beautiful motto : 

"holiness unto the lord," 
and under it another, 

" SEATS FREE." 

Transgressor was greeted by a genteel brother 
who conducted him to a seat. Everything about 
the building was very neat and tasty. After a 
brief but fervent prayer the minister announced 
as his text, 

"And an high way shall be there, and a way, and it shall be 
called, The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; 
but it shall be for those; the wayfaring men, though fools, shall 
not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast 



52 



THE GREAT 



shall go up thereon; it shall not be found there: but the re- 
deemed shall wa]k there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall 
return, and come to Ziou with songs and everlasting joy upon 
their heads: they sh*ll obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and 
sighing shall flee away." — (Isa. xxxv. 8 —10.) 

The sermon harmonized completely with the 
statements of the Celestial Line agent. The speak- 
er affirmed that this was the only route that ex- 
tended clear through into the City of God. Said 
he, " There are many routes which seem to reach 
heaven ; the road leading up yon steep hill may 
appear to reach the skies, but after one gets to the 
summit he finds himself far below the heavens. 
So there are many routes which appear to reach 
the better land, but they do not. God has con- 
structed the only highway to the skies. The old 
Appian Way, in the Eoman empire, was three 
hundred and fifty miles long. It was twenty-four 
feet wide, and on either side of the road was a 
path for foot passengers. It was made out of 
rocks cut in hexagonal shape and fitted together. 
Think of a road of smooth hard rock three hun- 
dred and fifty miles long. No wonder that in its 
construction the resources of the empire were 
drained. But behold here a greater than the Ap- 
pian Way, a road reaching from the lowest dun- 
geonjof human degradation to the highest palace 
sparkling in the sunlight of heaven. Every chasm 
has been bridged, every mountain tunneled. The 
mighty workman groaned beneath the task, and, 
as the last rail was laid, he cried, ' It is fin- 
ished.' This is indeed a highway. I do not come 
to you preaching a limited salvation. A highway 
is free to all, and the Celestial Eoad is free to ev- 
ery one. It is a clean route. Some roads profes- 
sedly reaching the upper kingdom are not clean. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



53 



But it is written in the unchangeable Word of 
God concerning the Celestial Line, ' The unclean 
shall not pass over it.' 

" Many corrupt people succeed in becoming mem- 
bers of the visible church, but no person can carry 
any sin over this line. This is the route of sepa- 
ration and salvation. We use none but palace 
coaches, and our road is remarkably free from 
dust and smoke. 

" It is a plain route ; simple, but not silly. There 
may be many things in the Guide Book we cannot, 
in our present state, fully understand, but that 
which pertains to our salvation is very plain. What 
avails it that a man is able to trace the laws of 
each planet and star, if he knows nothing of the 
bright and morning star ? What though he can 
almost count the ages by the stones in the door- 
yard, if he be entirely ignorant of the Bock of 
Ages ? Is it a safe route ? Aye, ' No lion shall 
be there. 5 They may be in the forests on either 
side, but can never enter upon the road. They 
may prowl around on the embankment, but not 
one ever succeeded in getting upon the track. Are 
the bridges safe ? The bridges on competing 
roads are continually breaking through, but no 
bridge on our line has ever given way. " I am the 
way,' says Jesus, 'press me.' With the everlast- 
ing arms around him, the Bock of Ages under- 
neath, and the smiles of the Heavenly Father 
above, ought not the Christian to feel secure ? Our 
passengers are very cheerful and happy. They 
are journeying i with songs and everlasting joy 
upon their heads.' The world's people make a 
great mistake in thinking that the travelers on our 
line are unhappy. This is not a doleful route ; 



54 



THE GREAT 



gloominess is an unclean fowl, and is not welcomed. 
Why should they be sad when they are journey- 
ing to a ' city that hath foundations, whose builder 
and maker is God.' Their happy hearts have 
caught the distant echo of the song they sing 
around the throne. They travel with ' songs,' 
some of them are written, some are unwritten, the 
irrepressible joys of the purified heart, which can 
never be written. Bye and bye 6 God shall wipe 
away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be 
no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither 
shall there be no more pain, for the former things 
are passed away.' " 

The preacher closed with an earnest exhortation 
to all his hearers to take the Celestial Line. After 
service several of the good people took Trans- 
gressor by the hand and invited him to come 
again. 

VIII. 

THE LAODICEAN OHUECH. 

This church had an angel for its pastor, who 
was a descendant of the angel who had many years 
ago ministered unto the Laodicean church in Asia 
Minor. Transgressor supposed this denomination 
had become extinct, and was surprised one day 
to see the angel of said church step into his office. 
" O, no," exclaimed the angel, " we are not extinct. 
Jesus said some severe things against our forefa- 
thers in Asia Minor ; nevertheless we survived, 
and have the finest and most fashionable congre- 
gation in the city. I preach in the Mammoth 
Cathedral on Lukewarm Avenue. We have flour- 
ishing churches on all lines except the Celestial. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



55 



Those desiring to go by that road are too radical, 
too much given to agitation. We are a conserva- 
tive people. However, we receive some additions 
every year from that road, as some grow weary of 
it after a while. Whenever they get rid of their 
old fogy notions they are ready to come to us." 

Transgressor thought possibly this angel might 
be able to help him, even though Dr. Quietus 
had failed, and commenced to relate some of his 
experience, which was not very pleasant to this 
visitor. Like Dr. Quietus, the angel endeavored 
to quiet Transgressor's awakened conscience, and 
on leaving asked him to attend his church on the 
ensuing Sabbath. The difficulty was, Transgres- 
sor was seeking counsel of a backslidden angel. 
He mused, "If an angel is not alarmed over my 
spiritual condition, why should I be so much trou- 
bled ?" Sabbath morning came. Transgressor was 
in the vestry of the great cathedral. Being well 
dressed and of fine appearance, he was met with 
a polite bow and escorted to a desirable seat. The 
angel was arrayed in a white robe. He was fine 
appearing, talented, and smiled complacently upon 
his congregation. His Masonic pin glittered in 
the sunlight. Transgressor thought, " Can it be 
possible that this angel has been hoodwinked and 
cable-towed?" The opening hymn, which was 
operatic, was a strange mixture of bass, solo, tenor 
and what-not ; each part seemed to vie with all 
the other parts in the struggle for the mastery. 
The same quartette were hired to sing here that 
sang in one of the down-town theatres. Its mem- 
bers were not even professed Christians. One of 
them was an infidel outright. The angel stood 
and said his prayer, commencing as pompous an- 



56 



THE GKEAT 



gels do, " O, thou infinite, eternal, omnipotent, 
omniscient, uncreated, undefined," &c, <fec. Trans- 
gressor got lost in the very introduction of the 
prayer. The angel instructed the Lord in refer- 
ence to the progress of human affairs, and prayed 
for nearly every object on earth save the Laodi- 
cean church. A little boy, after hearing a minis- 
ter's lengthy prayer, said to his mother, " Does 
God know every thing ?" " Yes," she replied ; 
" why do you ask such a question ?" " O," said 
he, " the minister told God so many things, I 
thought perhaps God was not posted." 

The angel read a long list of appointments, as 
follows : " On Monday evening there will be a 
Concert for the benefit of the Sunday School Li- 
brary. Tuesday evening, a Festival in the base- 
ment of the church. On Wednesday evening, a 
Fair in the church parlors. On Thursday evening 
the Committee on Dancing will meet for consulta- 
tion at 6.30, one hour before prayer meeting, 
which will be at 7.30. On Friday evening there 
will be a Church Baffle for the benefit of Foreign 
Missions ; and on Saturday evening the young 
people will meet and drill for the coming Holiday 
Carnival and Theatre. Let us sing, 

' ' Far from my thoughts, vain world, be gone, 
Let my religious hours alone" ! ! 

Transgressor smiled at the medley. No wonder 
that he afterward dubbed the Laodicean society as 
" The Church of the Holy Swell." 

The angel announced for his text, " I am rich 
and increased in goods, and have need of nothing." 
(Eev. iii. 17.) And judging from the appearance 
of the cathedral and audience, no one would doubt 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



57 



his statements. The most of the audience be- 
lieved what the angel told them. He was very 
careful not to arouse the consciences of his large 
and influential congregation by any pointed truths. 
He tickled their ears, and they flattered him. 
They paid him a large salary to keep back sharp 
truths. He did not dare preach a plain temper- 
ance sermon. Some of his own congregation tip- 
pled, and he tippled with them. Several of his 
most wealthy supporters rented their blocks to the 
wholesale and retail liquor business. His audi- 
ences were perfectly safe under his discourses. 
Too many ministers are like the Chinese gym- 
nasts, who exhibit remarkable skill in throwing 
knives at a person placed against a wall. Their 
great endeavor is to see how near they can come 
to the individual without hitting him. To cut or 
mar the one standing, is a mark of dishonor, and 
shows great lack of skill, but to stick knives in the 
wall all around, and within a hair's breadth of the 
person is considered highly creditable. Many 
preachers try to see how near they can come to 
their hearers and not hit them. Should they ac- 
cidentally arouse some one's conscience, they im- 
mediately apologize. Far too much of the preach- 
ing of this age has a tendency to increase the spir- 
itual lethargy of the people. 

This angel reminded the audience of their good 
works, and that to be a member of the Laodicean 
church was an honor. He said that they had fine 
cathedrals throughout the land, and he intimated, 
though he did not squarely say it, that they did 
not care to have poor people unite with them* If 
a poor man entered this church he must sit away 
in the rear where he would need an ear trumpet 
5 



58 



THE GREAT 



to hear and a spy-glass to see the preacher. Had 
this angel preached one plain sermon on repent- 
ance and restitution, some of his officials would 
have reminded him that his presence was desired 
more in heaven, or somewhere else, than in the 
Laodicean pulpit. Had he repeated the offence, 
there would have been a revival, or a committee 
would have advised him to travel for his health. 
But he was a very prudent angel ; he understood 
human nature, and would do nothing to offend 
his wealthy hearers. The sermon proved him to 
be well educated, but much of his language was 
so studied that the common people could not un- 
derstand it. For instance, when describing the 
passing of the redeemed spirit to heaven, he said, 
" The hierophantic soul sails down the vistas of 
protoplasm towards the anagoges." Most of the 
audience were delighted with the sermon, but 
there were a few present who were not satisfied 
even with the preaching ' of an angel. Once or 
twice during the service Transgressor had heard a 
very low sigh from some one sitting near him. He 
would not have wondered at this in the chapel on 
Penitent Avenue, as the sobs of the penitent and 
notes of praise were a frequent occurrence there. 
A holiness evangelist had become so grieved over 
the spiritual condition of this professed church of 
Christ, he could not refrain from sighing. Strange 
that the preaching of an angel should grieve a pi- 
ous evangelist ! But for disturbing the audience 
he would have gone out into the street to preach 
to the common people. 

As Evangelist walked away from the church by 
the side of Transgressor, the former said, " The 
angel this morning only discoursed on the human 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



59 



or worldly side of his theme. He did not even 
read the whole message of Christ, but studiously 
omitted the words, "I know thy works, that thou 
art neither cold nor hot. I would thou wert cold or 
hot ; so then because thou art lukewarm, and neither 
cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." He 
should have mentioned the severe rebuke Christ 
gave the ancient Laodicean church for their luke- 
warmness, since the judgments of God are as cer- 
tainly against the lukewarm Christian as they are 
against the open blasphemer. This church is a 
grand success as a worldly enterprise, but a mis- 
erable failure as a representative of Christ's church 
on earth. Alas, this is too true of many churches. 
Sinners are going to hell by platoons* under the 
shadow of tall steeples, while the members are 
rocked to sleep in the cradle of carnal security. 
Many ministers say heaven with a great shout, and 
hell in a soft whisper. The physician who con- 
ceals the most alarming symptoms from his patient 
is not the patient's true friend. This angel pre- 
fers to please men rather than save them. No 
minister can be a true friend to humanity who 
conceals from them the facts. This angel covers 
up the stern truths of the gospel under his snowy 
wing. The members of this church are deluded. 
A man may board the wrong train by mistake. He 
may be honestly deceived, but this will not bring 
him to the right destination. Multitudes are on 
the wrong train spiritually ; not because the way 
to heaven is not plain, but because they will not 
earnestly seek after the true road. Many love to 
be deceived ; the delusion is pleasing to the car- 
nal nature. God did not leave the ancient Laodi- 
cean church deceived ; he sent them a message of 



60 



THE GREAT 



warning. God warns men ; if they listen and 
obey, well ; if not, they must remain spiritually 
asleep until the thunders of the judgment day. 
The devil might send one of his smallest imps to 
watch such a church as this, and then he could 
spend nine-tenths of his time napping. It is just 
as near hell from the pulpit as from the pew if the 
minister is not saved. This angel is proud. He 
would not contaminate himself by associating with 
the common people. Not long since I called on a 
family who said he would cross the street rather 
than speak to them, on account of their poverty. 
He is too lofty to converse with the degraded and 
fallen, and the members of his church are follow- 
ing in his angelic (?) footsteps. We read of the 
angels which kept not their first estate ; but I 
think this angel has kept his original estate of de- 
pravity. He is not one of those who are sent 
forth to minister to such as shall be heirs of sal- 
vation. I will make war with this angel, and pub- 
lish to the world his false teachings." 

During the week the angel called on Transgres- 
sor, and invited himself and family to the church 
entertainments. He did not even mention the 
prayer meeting. Partly out of curiosity they at- 
tended the church fair. Here they found a bil- 
liard parlor, raffling room, card table, and theat- 
ricals bordering upon the obscene. They put a 
five dollar gold piece into a cake, and sold the 
pieces at one dollar each, as a chance for the gold 
piece. They put a young lady on the platform, 
and the gentlemen paid ten cents apiece for the 
privilege of a — kiss. Married men went home 
with young girls, and their wives got home as best 
they could, some of them accompanied with gen- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



61 



tleraen, and some of them alone ; but it was all for 
the glory of God, and under the supervision of an 
angel. 

Transgressor and wife went home disgusted. 
Said the latter, " I am very glad we did not bring 
the children; the effect upon them would have 
been pernicious. I had rather they would attend a 
show outside of the church, where gilded sin is 
not covered up with the cloak of religion, than go 
to such an entertainment under the garb of Chris- 
tianity. Jesus said to the money changers, c Take 
these things hence.' I do not believe in specu- 
lating on human depravity or pandering to man's 
baser nature to raise money for the cause of God. 
Those who pay their money at such gatherings do 
not do it from pure benevolence. Think of an an- 

fel auctioning dolls, supervising a grab bag, &c. 
am not opposed to innocent pleasures, or to le- 
gitimate social enjoyments, but when they cast the 
cloak of religion over such performances as we 
witnessed to-night, it is abominable. "What is the 
difference between this church and the world, un- 
less it be that this church takes the lead in doubt- 
ful pleasures ? These people would have the law 
executed against gambling hells, but this church 
by its little chance games furnishes recruits for 
the full-fledged gambling dens. When I think of 
the Compromise Line, and of this church, I am 
almost persuaded there is nothing in religion." 
They never went to the Laodicean church again. 

IX. 

ACEOSS THE OCEAN. 

Transgressor was nearly ready to abandon all 
faith in revealed religion, and determined to travel 



62 



THE GREAT 



abroad to view the wonderful works of God, and 
test the power of natural religion to give soul rest. 

It is a beautiful afternoon ; many of the passen- 
gers are on the deck of the ocean steamer, ad- 
miring the glories of the setting sun. There is 
not a cloud in the sky, and the water is compara- 
tively smooth. The ball of fire descends majes- 
tically, and apparently sinks into the bosom of the 
great deep. The sky is tinged with beautiful col- 
ors as the shades of night fall gradually upon the 
bosom of the ocean. Transgressor mused : " If 
the rest for which I yearn is to be discovered any- 
where in the wonders of nature, it seems to me it 
can be found in this glorious sunset on the waves. 
Perhaps I am longing for that which can never be 
realized in this world. Possibly I may yet find 
it on the highlands of Scotland, or amid the grand- 
eur of Switzerland." Thus he meditated as the 
sun sank into the waters and the stars began to 
twinkle in the heavens. On that vessel nearly all 
beliefs were represented — atheists, deists, materi- 
alists, spiritualists and Christians. Among the 
number was Dr. Universalis and the clergyman 
who had called on Transgressor's family. The 
first was traveling for his health, the latter as a 
missionary to the heathen. In company with oth- 
ers they were discussing the future condition of 
the righteous and the wicked. Several infidels 
were endeavoring to prove that man was only a 
high order of the brute creation, and entirely des- 
titute of a soul. 

" Ah me," drawled out an old tar on the out- 
skirts of the crowd, " I know better 'an that, and 
if we hev a he'vy storm 'fore reachin' t'other side 



CELESTIAL KAILR0AD. 



63 



ye'll find that every man aboard has got a soul, 
and ye'll be mighty orthodox too. Even these 
tars that can cuss and swear like pirates under a 
clear sky, will, when the storm comes too hard, 
pray fur God to save their souls. I b'lieve the 
good book my mother gave me has it kerrekt, 
' There is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of 
the Almighty giveth them understanding.' " 

The discussion continued upon religious sub- 
jects, until Cool Head, M. D., opened fire upon 
the Christian religion. He meant to give the cler- 
gyman a brush. 

" I think the gospel tends to destroy the nerv- 
ous system, and unmans the individual. It is very 
important, especially with certain temperaments, 
to maintain the system's equilibrium, and not be 
greatly moved by emotions of joy and sorrow. As 
a physician of extended practice and many years' 
experience, I pronounce the Christian religion, 
with its doctrines of repentance, heaven and hell, 
as calculated to excite and unbalance the nervous 
system." 

Clergyman. Was there ever any great reforma- 
tion without excitement ? Do we not owe our 
civil liberty to a great excitement ? "Without the 
excitement of the middle ages, caused by Martin 
Luther, where would be the world's religious lib- 
erty ? Without the excitement of the anti-slavery 
reform, millions would still be wearing chains. Is 
it proper for men to become excited in a political 
campaign? If so, is it strange they should be- 
come aroused over eternal things ? It is impossi- 
ble for one to fully believe the Bible and not be 
greatly stirred. Again, if we can excite men out 
of the gutter, excite them away from their cups, 



64 



THE GREAT 



excite new clothes on their backs, and happiness 
into their houses, do you not think we better keep 
up the excitement ? So far from true religion be- 
ing injurious to the mind and body, it has been a 
means of prolonging my life. I should have been 
in my grave years ago but for the grace of God. 
When a young man I commenced with the social 
glass, and went down gradually. I might have 
stopped at first ; but the little cords soon became 
mighty cables. Soon those who had been the 
means of my downfall passed me in the street un- 
noticed. Down I went until my brain whirled 
many times with delirium. I tried the pledge 
again and again, but this could not hold me. Some 
earnest Christian workers began to tell me about 
the compassionate Jesus. I cried unto him, and 
he saved me. He brought me up out of the horri- 
ble drunkard's pit, and put my feet upon a rock, 
O, those were exciting days when I was converted 
— a different kind of excitement from that which 
was caused by my going home reeling drunk, when 
my wife would cry, and the children flee away in 
fear. Now all is changed ; love reigns in our 
home ; I have had better health, and my bad hab- 
its are all gone. Other things being equal, I be- 
lieve that man will live the longest who has the 
blessing of the Lord, that maketh rich, and he 
addeth no sorrow therewith. God called me to 
the ministry, and now I am going up and down 
the earth crying to sinners, " Behold the Lamb of 
God that taketh away the sin of the world." 

At this moment the captain appeared, saying 
the barometer indicated a heavy storm, though no 
signs of it were visible. Even the sailors consid- 
ered the alarm premature ; but the captain ordered 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



65 



everything made fast. The sails were reefed, and 
everything was put in readiness for the gale, 
though not a cloud could be seen. Cool Head 
was immediately on deck. Night came, but no 
storm ; many retired, but Cool Head and a few 
others remained on the watch. At midnight a sud- 
den tempest broke upon them, carrying everything 
before it. The wind was terrific ; the rain, hail 
and sleet went whizzing over the wave. The sky 
was black ; no light could be seen save the sharp 
flashes of lightning. It was fearfully grand. The 
vessel at first seemed stunned, and then began to 
move faster and faster before the furious wind, 
now resting on top of a wave, pausing a second in 
awful suspense, and then plunging down into the 
fearful darkness, as if in haste to reach the bot- 
tom of the sea. A thrill of despair shot through 
the hearts of the passengers, and a loud wail rose 
to heaven for help. When the ship began again 
slowly to rise on the next wave, hope would re- 
vive in every breast, only to be crushed as the ves- 
sel took a deeper plunge. It seemed as if all the 
artillery of heaven were let loose, and the dragons 
of the deep were venting their rage ; the elements 
above and below engaged in terrible conflict. 
Consternation seized the passengers. The morn- 
ing came, but no relief, for the storm rolled on. 
The captain became alarmed. With a tremulous 
voice he said, " We are nearing dangerous reefs ; 
our anchors drag, and if the tempest continues 
much longer, all is lost !" Despair settled upon 
passengers and crew. The first to kneel in prayer 
was Dr. Cool Head ; and how he prayed ! Dr. 
Universalis knelt near him and asked to be saved 
from hell. The clergyman prayed, if it were 



66 



THE GREAT 



God's will, to spare the ship's company ; if not, he 
said, " Thy will be done." After which he calmly 
sang, 

My hope is built on nothing less 
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness ; 
I dare not trust the sweetest frame. 
But wholly lean on Jesus' name; 
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand, 
All other ground is sinking sand. 

Strong sailors who a few hours before were swear- 
ing incessantly, now prayed for God to bring them 
safe to land. There were no scoffers in that pray- 
er meeting. Why do men call upon that God for 
aid in danger, whom they ridicule when death 
does not seem to be near ? Why do they then 
forsake false theories ? Did you ever hear of a 
true Christian in the time of danger abandoning 
his religion ? Unbelievers acknowledge the gos- 
pel to be true by leaving their false foundations in 
time of danger, and calling upon Jesus of Naza- 
reth. 

But where was Transgressor all this time ? No 
sooner did the storm strike the ship than all his 
past life flashed before him. He thought of his 
early training, of his mother's prayers, of the Ce- 
lestial Agent's exhortation, of the minister's call, 
and of his neglect of God. During that tempest 
every one on board was terribly orthodox. 

The storm-king relented his fury, and there 
came a calm on the deep, a calm as great as the 
storm had been. The sailors, forgetting their 
prayers, resumed their oaths. Gaiety entered the 
hearts of the passengers, and the promises so re- 
cently made were forgotten. There is soon the 
sound of music and dancing. O, what strange 
contrasts this world of ours presents. Noonday 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



67 



and midnight are not more unlike than the scenes 
that are continually passing before us. Can that 
be the same company that a few days before made 
such solemn vows to God ? 

Clergyman. Good morning, Dr. Cool Head. 

Dr. Cool Head. Good morning, sir. 

Clergyman. Was it enthusiasm, or excitement, 
or what, that caused you to pray so earnestly the 
other day ? Religious excitement is very injuri- 
ous to the human system, you know. 

The Doctor made no reply. At the tea table 
that evening Clergyman propounded this question 
to Dr. Universalis : " If all men are to be saved 
from hell, why did you pray so earnestly the oth- 
er day for salvation ?" 

He made no response ; and Clergyman contin- 
ued, " There are some theories which may do very 
well on solid land, but they do not answer in a 
storm at sea." 

Transgressor visited England, Scotland, passed 
through Switzerland and Germany, on to Egypt, 
Sinai and the Holy Land, and yet not on the page 
of nature, amid all the scenes of grandeur, nor 
among the proudest works of man, could he find 
the realm of soul rest. He could read in nature 
something about the character of God, but earth, 
with all its greatness, was silent about a future 
world. Nature spoke nothing to him of redeem- 
ing love and immortality. Wherever he went he 
found the inhabitants of earth depraved. They 
bore the same image as the people in the city he 
had left. Indeed, he was only visiting other por- 
tions of the great City of Sin. He proved that 
Scripture true, " The whole world lieth in wicked- 
ness." There was no permanent rest from visible 



68 



THE GREAT 



sources. Transgressor's trouble was an internal 
one. He had carried an epitome of the sinful 
world with him — a wicked heart. If he found 
happiness, he must find it in something higher than 
the human. Visiting the whole earth with all its 
broad rivers and towering mountains, traveling in 
foreign lands, will never bring this pearl to man. 
He who starts on an earthly tour to find complete 
soul rest amid the things that are seen, has com- 
menced a long pilgrimage, an endless journey. He 
may go and stand on the ocean shore, listening to 
the music of the waves ; he may ascend among 
the stars and listen to the harmony of the spheres, 
he may go to every continent and island on earth, 
and not find the peace for which he sighs, and he 
will never find it until he comes to him who said, 
" Come unto me all ye that labor and are 
heavy laden, and i will give you rest." (mat- 
thew xi. 28. 

X. 

INCREASING WICKEDNESS OF THE CITY 
OF SIN. 

The government of the City of Sin grew worse 
and worse. The churches became more corrupt, 
and infidelity increased to an alarming extent. 
All kinds of idolatry became prevalent ; the Sab- 
bath was trampled under foot. The few who la- 
bored to enforce the Sunday laws against the sale 
of liquor, were dubbed " cold water fanatics." 
" Personal Liberty" became the motto of all who 
desired to serve self alone. The mass of professed 
Christians were given to worldliness, most of them 
taking the lead in sinful amusements. Many of 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



69 



the churches became so cold and formal that one 
evangelist declared a pail of water would freeze 
over in most of them. The columns of the daily 
papers were filled with murders, suicides, and all 
kinds of crime. The taxes became enormous. 
Theatres grew more obscene, and the basest plays 
were running every night. The bulletin boards 
were covered with immodest portraits of actresses. 
Men who considered themselves respectable at- 
tended these theatres with their families. Had 
one of these semi-nude stage fairies entered their 
parlors in stage costume, she would have been 
ordered into the street. By what parity of reason- 
ing do people tolerate that on the stage, before 
thousands, which they would not allow in the qui- 
et of their own homes ? Does the vast assemblage 
justify the immorality ? Business men who made 
no profession of religion became alarmed at the 
prevalence of crime. Their lives and property 
were in jeopardy. Dynamiters were cosstantly at 
work. Eevivalists experienced much difficulty in 
conducting services. Tract distributers and street 
preachers were jailed. The City Fathers deemed 
out-door religious meetings too exciting, but 
champion prize-fighters could exhibit themselves 
to thousands, even on the Sabbath day. Over-nice 
Christians thought religion too sacred a thing to 
be taken into the streets, but the souls and bodies 
of men were not too sacred to be corrupted by 
obscene bulletin-boards, profanity and drunken- 
ness. Minstrels and circuses could parade the 
streets and be protected by the courageous (?) po- 
lice, but the few disciples of Jesus were mobbed 
whenever they attempted in the open air to speak 
in his name. 



70 



THE GKEAT 



Though the reign of terror was well inaugurated, 
there was one true mode of deliverance, and that 
was through him who said, " I am the way, the 
truth, and the life." Many citizens wished relief, 
but desired it without humiliation. These would 
have been glad to have the grosser forms of vice 
checked, but did not wish the smaller ones as- 
sailed. 

A noted infidel was invited to visit the city and 
lecture. A banner was borne through the streets 
with this inscription, " Join the train of progress." 
"The Mosaic account of creation a fraud." On 
the other side were portraits of leading infidels. 
The procession, headed by this banner, marched 
unmolested through the streets to the hall, which 
was soon crowded. This was no breach of the 
peace ! The lecture was mostly negative, consist- 
ing largely of " I don't know." At its conclusion, 
Dr. Soundsense arose and stated the sad condi- 
tion of affairs in the city, and asked the infidel 
what should be done. " You have ridiculed the Bi- 
ble, you have taken away Christ, the foundation 
of true morality. Destruction threatens us ; many 
of the citizens contemplate migrating by the dif- 
ferent lines. You scorn revelation, but you offer 
us nothing better. You remove our foundation, 
' We know,' and leave us to stand on ' 1 don't 
know.' You take away our shelter, and leave us 
us houseless, homeless wanderers on the desert of 
time, exposed to the raging elements of earth and 
hell, with no covering for our defenceless heads. 
What shall we do ?" To which the learned infi- 
del replied eloquently, discoursing on moral pre- 
cepts borrowed indirectly from revelation. The 
press took up the question. The Reform Gazette 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



71 



said, " Unless relief comes soon, tlie city is doomed 
to darkness and chains." It advocated more re- 
form associations, total abstinence societies, &c, 
all good in themselves, but unable to work a com- 
plete reform. The Journal of Culture was of the 
same opinion. To cultivate the intellect, to thor- 
oughly train the mind, and discipline the evil 
heart, were its doctrines. The Gospel Anchor 
came out with clarion notes : 

The measures advocated by the Reform Gazette and Journal of 
Culture are good, but do not fully meet the demand. They fail 
to lay the axe at the root of the tree. Morality is commendable, 
but it cannot take the place of true piety. Of what use is a ca- 
ble to a ship, be it ever so well made, if it be too short to reach 
down where the anchor can grasp the rock. The city needs a 
cable that will go down and grip the Rock of Ages, and keep the 
people from being swept into hell. A palace of ice may afford 
protection in winter, but how quickly it disappears beneath a 
hot sun. Thus it is with one's morality and self -goodness. They 
melt away in the time of trial. We need a power that will not 
forsake us in the hour of tribulation. Infidelity struts while 
living, but in death acknowledges with confessions most humil- 
iating that Christ alone can save. Of what avail is any system 
of religion that fails when the test comes ? The temperance 
crusaders are stoned in the streets. Terror has seized the pul- 
pits and silenced some of the most eloquent preachers. We ad- 
vise all who desire to flee from the wrath to come, to repent 
heartily of their sins and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. He 
only is the hope of the world. Those who have tried the route 
of simple morality, testify, when they reach the Yalley of the 
Shadow of Death, that it fails to run clear into the city. They 
are compelled to return to Penitent Avenue, and utter the pub- 
lican's prayer, 6 < God be merciful to me a sinner." Pledges and 
reform associations, without grace, can never save men. No- 
thing but the blood of Jesus can wash away the stain and pre- 
serve one from falling. The measures advocated by the Journal 
of Culture will also fail. Education is good if sanctified, but 
training the intellect will not change the heart. The city needs 
a heart religion. Take the little thorn in the door-yard, tenderly 
care for it, water it every morning, loosen the soil about it, trim 
it, and it will grow. But after all your pains, you have only a 
more decent looking thorn. No amount of culture will trans- 
form it into a rose-bush. If you want arose there, you must 



72 



THE GREAT 



pull up the thorn and plant a rose-bush in its stead Take the 
sinner, educate him, put on the highest polish, and after all 
your cultivation what have you but a more deceat-looking sin- 
ner? And he will be a sinner until he is born of the Spirit. 
Sanctified education is good but the pest of this city i:-; the edu- 
cated villain. The gospel is the source of all true refinement; 
the highest culture can be found only where the Bible and its 
hallowed influences are felt. The old philosophers aimed to ex- 
alt man into a god by polishing the exterior; the gospel seeks to 
make men Godlike through belief of the truth. What we need 
is Bible salvation. 

The Pope thundered from the Vatican, com- 
manding the people to go via the line of Xnfalla- 
bility. The Pope, Cardinals and the Priests were 
vehement in their denunciation of other lines. All 
who rode over them were heretics. Bulls and 
edicts were often issued ; masses were frequently 
said, and indulgences freely sold. The Eomish 
authorities labored incessantly night and day to 
convince the people that it was much easier to 
reach heaven by going around through purgatory. 
A lighted taper was offered to all patrons, pro- 
vided they or their friends paid for the taper. The 
Eomish trains promised to stop in purgatory for 
departed friends, if the friends on earth prepaid 
the passage of these sufferers out of the lower 
regions. 

The Anti-Romanist said : 

We prefer salvation direct through our Lord Jesus Christ. We 
do not like anything second handed, specially the grace of God. 
We do not want it cooled off by coming from Pope to Cardinal, 
Cardinal to Archbishop, Archbishop to Bishop, Bishop to Priest, 
and Priest to the penitent. We prefer it blazing hot from off 
God's own altars around the throne. If we have an account at 
the bank, we can fill out an order, sign our name, send by our 
friend to the bank and get our money ; but we can never secure 
salvation in this manner; we must come to heaven's bank our- 
selves. The ' 'Light of the world" is far preferable to a lighted 
taper. The latter will go out, but tin first is an everlasting 



CELESTIAL BAILBOAD. 



73 



light. Again, why come to Christ through the intervention of 
the Virgin Mary ? If she can hear the prayers of worshipers all 
over the world at once, then we have another omniscient and 
omnipotent god in the person of the holy virgin. 

The city grew worse and worse, like Sodom and 
Gomorrah of old. 

"Woe to the bloody city; it is all full of 
lies and robbery ; the prey departeth not." — 
(Nahum iii. 1.) 

XI. 

THE DECISION. 

"And are yon not satisfied with the light of na- 
ture ?" enquired Natural Religionist a few days 
after Transgressor's return. 

" No, indeed," said the latter emphatically. " I 
visited many lands, but was unable to realize that 
in natural scenery, or in the proudest works of 
man, for which my spirit yearned. I could not 
out-travel my unrest of spirit. Sin has plunged 
the whole world into trouble. To seek for perma- 
nent happiness amid that which is visible, is like 
visiting the empty sepulchre of the Son of God, 
and meeting with the reproof, 6 Why seek ye the 
living among the dead ?' I am persuaded that 
man needs something besides that which is seen, 
to guide him in the path of duty. There are 
many things in revelation I do not fully under- 
stand. So there are in the physical world ; sci- 
entists cannot explain every mystery in connection 
with the shining of the sun ; but it were folly 
therefore to say it does not shine ; and it is un- 
wise for me longer to reject revelation because I 
cannot unravel all its mysteries. Enough has been 
6 



74 



THE GREAT 



plainly revealed in the Word and by the Spirit to 
discover to me my duty. I have found that 6 the 
way of transgressors is hard,' that though men 
may advocate bravely their theories of unbelief in 
health and strength, yet these fail in the presence 
of danger and death." And he related what 
transpired during the terrible storm at sea. " Rea- 
son's torch goes out in the tempest. I need a 
light that will burn through the dampness of the 
grave, and bring me to that city where it is eternal 
sunlight." 

Not long after he announced to his family his 
intention of leaving the city on the Celestial Line. 
" I know this route is not very popular," said he, 
" but as there is no lasting peace outside of the 
gospel, I mean to see what there is inside of it. 
' Other refuge have I none.' I desire very much 
to have my family go with me ; but I must go at 
any cost. It is my soul that is imperiled ; it is a 
personal matter between me and my God." 

His companion had not forgotten the Compro- 
mise failure, and was a little ashamed to attempt 
to start for the Celestial City again. She tried in 
vain to divert his mind from the themes in which 
he was so deeply interested. A spiritualistic me- 
dium's visit a few days before had aroused her cu- 
riosity. " They tell of such wonderful things," 
said she, " how the dead return to the earth, and 
how one may talk with departed friends ; I would 
like you to go with me just once. May be we can 
hear something from our little Charlie who left us 
so suddenly last summer. There must be some- 
thing in it, as quite a number of intelligent people 
are regular attendants." 

When she spoke of Charlie she touched a ten- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



75 



der chord, for lie had nearly worshiped the bright 
little fellow. He would give thousands of dollars 
to see him again as he used to play about the 
house and yard. He stood a few moments in 
deep thought, and then said, 

" I cannot allow my mind to be diverted again. 
I have tried worldly religion, natural religion, and 
almost every thing else, and I see no permanent 
help only in the true gospel of Jesus Christ. As 
to spiritualism, I believe there is something in it ; 
the devil is in it. The whole system is one of de- 
ception. Its votaries are either deceivers or are 
under a strong delusion. I would like to see the 
little boy again as he used to be, but if he came 
back to earth as a companion of spirit mediums, 
tipping over chairs, rapping on windows, or wri- 
ting on slates, for the amusement of the curious, I 
do not care to greet him ; I prefer to think of him 
before the throne of God, with the angels, chant- 
ing the praises of the Great King. I cannot be- 
lieve his happy spirit would return to earth to en- 
gage in sleight of hand performances. God has 
given us one revelation. Any other revelation 
must be accompanied by a ' Thus saith the Lord 
and further, it must agree with the first one given, 
since God cannot disagree with himself. Spiritu- 
alism seeks to destroy the divinity of Christ. It 
would overthrow the sanctity of the marriage re- 
lation. It teaches spiritual affinities, and any sys- 
tem which advocates that a married man may have 
a stronger affinity for another man's wife, or for a 
maiden, than he has for his own wife, is of the 
devil. I prefer the word of God to the word of a 
disembodied spirit. Under the old dispensation, 
intercourse between the living and the dead was 



76 



THE GKEAT 



prohibited under penalty of death. [See Ex. xxii. 
18 ; Jer. xix. 31 ; xx. 6—27 ; Deut. xviii. 10—14.] 
It is only when people lose their faith in Christ 
that they seek communion with the dead. The 
system is one of necromancy and demonism. 
When the Lord left Saul, he sought a familiar 
spirit, and when the Lord leaves any one they go 
to destruction. These disembodied spirits do not 
speak in harmony with the Bible, nor in harmony 
with each other. Some deny revelation, some af- 
firm it to be true. ' To the law and to the testi- 
mony ; if they speak not according to this word it 
is because there is no light in them." (Isa. viii. 20.) 
I shall not grace the seance with my presence." 

" W-e-1-1, remember, husband, once we tried to 
leave the city on the Compromise Line, and we 
came home very much dissatisfied." 

" I mean to attend the gospel meeting to-night, 
and would like your company," said Transgressor. 

" Eemember," said she, " the Compromise fail- 
ure, and the terrible disaster. The Celestial train 
may break through at the same gorge." 

Notwithstanding her objections, when he was 
ready to go to meeting she accompanied him. As 
they entered, the congregation were singing. The 
man of God preached from the words, " Behold 
now is the accepted time," and urged the necessity 
of immediate action in reference to the salvation 
of the soul. In closing, he said, " There is no 
time in which God promises salvation save the 
present. Men attend to temporal matters in the 
present, but the interests of the soul are postponed 
indefinitely. Perishable things first, imperishable 
ones afterwards. When one is left at the depot 
there is no alternative but to wait for another 



CELESTIAL KAILROAD. 



77 



train. The last gospel train, with many of you, 
will go very soon. Time passed never returns ; 
none can stop its flight. The engineer may re- 
verse the steam, put clown the brakes, and stop 
the train ; but no man can reverse the wheels of 
time or check it in its rapid flight. After the last 
sand has run out in the hour-glass, it may be in- 
verted and it will run another hour ; but when the 
last sand of your probation runs out there is no 
inverting the glass and trying it over. The spec- 
tacle of a lady floating over the sea in a boat 
asleep, her pearl necklace hanging over the edge 
of the boat, and one pearl after another slipping 
off into the deep, aptly represents the sinner's 
condition. He is asleep, conscience unaroused, 
and one opportunity after another is dropping. 
Oh, how soon the last pearl will be gone. Make 
haste to seek Christ ere it is too late, and God 
bless you. Amen." 

Going out of the church they were met by Pros- 
elytus, whose business it was to turn the attention 
of converts and serious-minded people to " his 
church^ He was one of the number who " com- 
pass sea and land to make one proselyte." Alas 
for professed Christians when they work more for 
" my church" than they do for Christ. Transgres- 
sor treated him courteously, but his mind was too 
much engrossed with other things to pay much at- 
tention to him. 

XII. 

AT THE CELESTIAL DEPOT. 

Next morning the carriage was at the door. 
" We shall return before night," remarked Mrs. 



78 



THE GREAT 



Transgressor as she was arranging her toilet. 
" Shall we take the children ?" she continued. 

" Certainly," said he; "we have one gone be- 
fore, and this morning I persuaded the older chil- 
dren to accompany u^ ; we will all board the same 
train." 

It was a beautiful morning as they rode to the 
depot. The oppression had become so great in 
the city that a large number were at the station. 
Some were a little surprised to see Transgressor's 
carriage rolling towards the Celestial depot. His 
partners looked askance as he passed the store ; 
but he was now intent on eternal life, and was wil- 
ling to humble himself. For what did the Son of 
God descend into the Valley of Humiliation ? He 
left his throne of light and glory, came to earth, 
was born in a manger, lived an humble life, and 
was crucified, that man might go through the gates 
of pearl in all his pride ! No ! a thousand times 
no. Think of the Mighty God, the Everlasting 
Father, and the Prince of Peace, becoming so 
weak he is cradled in the arms of feeble woman, 
that he might bring salvation to a lost world. The 
gospel is so lowly and simple that it is overlooked 
by the masses. It says to man in his pride what 
Jesus said to the man in the tree, " Come down." 
Zaccheus came down, and Jesus went home and 
abode with him. And he will go and abide with 
every one who humbles himself, and who will ad- 
mit the King. Oh, what a chasm between Christ 
in heaven and Christ in the manger ; what a dis- 
tance from the throne to the cross. The world 
overlooked Jesus in his humiliation, and they will 
not applaud the individual who identifies himself 
with Christ in his lowliness. What destroyed the 



CELESTIAL KAXLBOAD. 



79 



angels ? Pride. What blasts the spirituality of 
many professed Christians ? Sinful pride. 

It is said that every child found begging in the 
streets of Munich is arrested and carried to a 
charitable institution. When he enters, his por- 
trait is painted, in his ragged dress, precisely as 
he was found begging. When his education is 
finished in the establishment, his portrait is given 
him, and he promises by an oath to keep it all his 
life, in order that he may be reminded of the ab- 
ject condition from which he has been rescued, 
and of the obligations to the institution which 
saved him from misery and gave him the means 
by which he might avoid it in the future. Are you 
a disciple of Christ, and tempted to pride ? " Look 
unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole 
of the pit whence ye are digged." (Isa. li. 1.) 

Many who had been attending the meetings on 
Penitent Avenue were at this station with smiling 
faces. A few Scribes and Pharisees who had con- 
cluded to abandon their hollow forms of worship, 
were there. The hypocrite came, who though he 
had succeeded in entering the visible church, 
could not procure a ticket without open confes- 
sion and thorough repentance. Dives drove 
down to the station ; he had been near the gates 
of death ; his physicians feared he would not rally 
permanently. He alighted from his coach in great 
pomp, and Naaman-like, expected the ticket agent 
would come out and pay him great respect. The 
officials of this railroad, however, took no more 
notice of him than they would of a common peas- 
ant. Dives had become alarmed at the financial 
condition of the city. Should he remain, he was 
afraid he would lose his immense fortune through 



80 



THE GBEAT 



some financial crash. The longer he lived, the 
more penurious he became. His coachman as- 
sisted him to the ticket office, where he enquired 
the price of a through ticket to the Holy City, and 
was promptly told by the genial agent, " He that 
f orsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my dis- 
ciple." (Luke xiv. 33.) "Alas," mused he, "I 
have loved my money more than my God." And 
this truth flashed upon his mind, " I have been an 
idolater." The By-Laws of the Celestial Railroad 
said, " The idolater shall not inherit the kingdom 
of God." Dives stood meditating — " Can I love 
Jesus more than all else? Can I worship the 
Lord alone ? How true those words, ' The love of 
money is the root of all evil." 

The keen-eyed agent, discerning his thoughts, 
said to him, " Go and seJl that thou hast, and give 
to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in hea- 
ven, and come and follow me." (Mat. xix. 21.) 
Dives looked at the " strait gate," at the humble 
company who had passed through and were seated 
in the train, and then his proud heart sent him 
away, " sorrowful, for he had great possessions." 

" It is easier for a camel to go through the eye 
of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the 
kingdom of God " — not because riches in them- 
selves are wrong, but because men make their 
riches their God. It is not the legitimate acquire- 
ment of wealth, nor its possession that is sinful ; 
it is the loving it more than we do our Maker that 
makes us idolaters. This man was so covetous he 
would build his barns larger rather than give to 
the starving poor around him. The agent saw 
that his money stood in his way, hence gave him 
the above advice. Many a man will chase the roll- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



81 



ing dollar clear to the month of hell, and rnn right 
in after it. Dives ordered his coachman to drive 
to the Compromise Station. Here the ticket agent 
came out and greeted him with his politest bow, and 
escorted him to the ticket office. Here they had 
respect of persons. Dives succeeded in purchas- 
ing a ticket at a reduced rate, and the agent gave 
him the best seat in a palace car. Many nabobs 
drove down to the Celestial Depot, but on learning 
the regulations of the company, whirled away to 
the Compromise Station. However, some men of 
wealth who came to this depot regarded the salva- 
tion of the soul as paramount to every other con- 
sideration, and paying the price, procured tickets 
and boarded the train. All were required to pass 
through the " strait g?te," which was easily done 
after tickets were procured. The train stood wait- 
ing. The manly form of the conductor, and the 
smiling faces of the passengers, encouraged Trans- 
gressor's heart. The gospel engine was very at- 
tractive, a masterpiece of workmanship, very 
strong and finely proportioned. It created no 
dust nor smoke, and was moved by an unseen 
power. 

" I came here," said Inquisitive, " to take the 
train, but would like to understand everything 
about the locomotive before starting. I see no 
power in the engine ; I wish some one would fully 
explain this mysterious piece of mechanism before 
I step on board." 

" We have not time to explain everything," said 
the depot master; if you wish to ride, buy your 
ticket and get aboard. The Directors of the road 
are infallible ; you are already a believer in un- 
seen powers and unseen forces." 

Inquisitive. How so ? 



82 



THE GREAT 



Depot Master. Did you ever see gravitation ? 
Inquisitive. No . 

Depot Master. And yet you would not deny that 
there is such a power at work in nature ? You 
never saw the air you breathe ; you cannot see 
steam ; it is not visible until it becomes condensed 
in some degree. The power that moves this great 
gospel train is unseen, but because you cannot see 
it, and understand it, is no proof that it is not able 
to carry you safely to the Holy City. You will 
have all eternity to — 

" All aboard !" rang through the station ; the 
whistle blew, the train was off, and Inquisitive 
was left — as also were Transgressor and his fami- 
ly, who had been listening to the conversation. 

The power of the gospel of Christ may be felt, 
though it cannot be seen ; to refuse to test it be- 
cause we cannot fully explain all about it is as un- 
wise as it would be to refuse the sunshine because 
we cannot explain every mystery in connection 
with the sun's shining. 

There were no baggage cars on the Celestial 
Line ; no baggage of any kind could be carried 
through the " strait gate." Many overload them- 
selves in traveling. Think of a lady with a large 
satchel, a small valise, a shawl-strap, a basket, 
bird-cage, band-box, umbrella and poodle dog, 
trying to board the cars. It is far more respecta- 
ble (?) to travel with a dirty poodle than with a fine 
healthy baby. Many attempt to board the gospel 
train as heavily laden with their sins as these fash- 
ionables are with their trappings, when the plain 
command is, " Lay aside every weight, and the sin 
which doth so easily beset us." The tickets were 
clear type, and more beautiful than the Compro- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



83 



mise tickets, while the signature bore unmistaka- 
ble evidence of being that of the King of Kings. 
Over the agent's window were to be seen these 
notices : 

" FARE, THY SINS." 

" ONE PRICE, AND NO DEVIATION." 

" NO FREE PASSES." 

Mercantile houses often flourish the sign, " One 
Price, and No Deviation," and yet they sometimes 
vary for friends ; but at this office no variation in 
price could ever be made. Here, bishop, layman, 
millionaire and pauper all met on a level. Many 
tried in vain to secure a small reduction. Some 
wished a ticket as far as Peace Station, desiring 
the consolations of the gospel without its purity. 
Others would go if they could get a " stop-over" 
ticket ; while others still wished to go simply as 
an experiment. All such were promptly refused 
tickets. 

Transgressor and family purchased tickets, and 
started to pass the " strait gate." They left all 
their sins, which were carried away and placed in 
a huge pile to be burned up with refiners' fire. 
On the face of the ticket could be read : 



GEEAT CELESTIAL LINE 
FKOM EAETH TO HEAVEN. 
ISSUED TO 

Good for One Continuous Passage. 



" Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou 
shalt be saved." King of Kings. 



84 THE GREAT 

And on the back — 



N. B. — This Ticket not Transferable. 



"have faith in god." 



"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give 
thee a crown of life. " — Jesus. 



By the phrase " Through Ticket," the Company 
did not mean that the holder would reach heaven 
unconditionally, irrespective of his conduct after 
purchasing a ticket. By breaking the rules, the 
passenger forfeited his ride. The great condition 
of salvation is faith, and the condition upon 
which the believer will be finally rewarded is faith- 
fulness, even unto death. We might as well say, 
" Once rich, always rich," as to adopt the old ad- 
age, " Once in grace, always in grace." Every-day 
experience demonstrates, that a man who is rich 
may, by carelessness, become poor, and one who 
is poor, may, by industry and economy, become 
wealthy ; so men may backslide, but they need 
not. Jesus does not propose to save us beyond 
the possibility of backsliding, but beyond the pro- 
bability of it. If we cling to our tickets, heaven 
is ours. " "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give 
diligence to make your calling and election sure, 
for if ye do these things ye shall never fall." (2 Pe- 
ter i. 10.) We are not elected from all eternity, 
but we are to make our own election sure. If it 
be already " decreed," why the exhortation " to 
make it sure?" Every man elects himself to eter- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



85 



nal life, or eternal death. As the passengers came 
to the gate their tickets were thoroughly scanned, 
since parties were continually endeavoring to pass 
fraudulent tickets ; none but those having the gen- 
uine stamp would pass. There was only one 
" strait gate," through which all must go. "We 
have not one route to heaven for the rich, and an- 
other for the poor ; but one route for all. 

Over-Cautious had come to the station to induce 
Transgressor to return. "I fear," said he, "you 
will find this route as unsafe as the Compromise 
Line, which you once tried. Many that start on 
this route, after traveling for some distance, lose 
their tickets and return. You will be back in a 
few days. There are tumults, deep gorges, and 
wild beasts along the route ; also giants, which I 
have been told ' eat up ' the passengers, (Numbers 
xiii. 32.) Further, I think it is a dull and gloomy 
road to travel." 

Transgressor. Possibly the people to whom you 
refer had more trials after leaving the train 
than they would have had by remaining on board. 

Over -Cautious. I doubt it ; I would not dare 
risk my reputation by an identification with the 
cause of Christ, nor rest my eternal salvation upon 
the mere promises of the Bible. But here comes 
Wanderer, who returned some time ago. Let us 
ask him about the matter. 

" Oh," said the latter, as he pressed toward the 
" strait gate," " I have tried this line; I lost my 
ticket in the hour of temptation. There was 
no necessity for it, as 6 God is faithful, who will 
not suffer you to be tempted above that ye 
are able, but will with the temptation also make 
a way to escape.' (1 Cor. x. 13.) Since then 



86 



THE GEEAT 



I have been over and tried the Compromise 
Line ; have tested almost everything in the City 
of Sin of a reformatory character, and have 
at last returned to this road. I had trials on 
this line, but some one to help me bear them. On 
the other route I had to endure them alone. Here 
I had light in the darkness, and peace when the 
tempest raged without. At the Penitent Avenue 
meeting the other evening I heard about the Prod- 
igal Son. It aroused me, and I must board the 
next train. There is nothing so solid as the thirty 
thousand promises in the Guide-Book of this 
Company. They are correctly called, ' exceeding 
great and precious promises.' The road-bed is 
solid, the rails are the best free grace extension, 
and never break. I could enter no just complaints 
against the conductor, cars or route. I listened 
to the voice of the tempter. It is written, ' Re- 
sist the devil and he will flee from you.' I failed 
to heed this injunction, • and am now in haste; 
please let me pass through." 

As Transgressor and family started towards the 
gate, Over-Cautious tried again to pull him back, 
but Transgressor tore himself from his pretended 
friend, and with his family boarded the train. 

Sometimes old tickets were presented at the 
gate, but all such were promptly rejected, and the 
holder of them sent to the ticket office to purchase 
new ones. The ticket agent said that the Bishop 
might smile approvingly upon their old tickets, 
but he could not honor them. Before boarding 
the train Transgressor heard of the fate of Impet- 
uosity, who had left the Celestial Line poster in 
such great haste. On reaching this station and 
ascertaining the price of a ticket, he had gone 



CELESTIAL RAILEOAD. 



87 



over to the Compromise Road, and leaving the 
city he was killed in the Tribulation Gorge disas- 
ter. Instability boarded the train just before it 
started. On entering the cars they found them 
clean, light and airy. This surprised some, who 
expected they would have a sombre appearance. 
This expectation may have been the result of the 
severe scrutinizing received at the " strait gate," 
or from the dejected appearance of many pro- 
fessed Christians in the City of Sin. There was 
not even the shadow of gloominess about the 
train. The lightest, brightest and most cheery 
place this side of the twelve gates of pearl is with- 
in the sacred precincts of the gospel. Everything 
about the train was clean and fresh in appearance. 
Though the line had been in suceessful operation 
for ages, no evidences of wear could be discovered. 
It was perfect. The sound of the hammer was 
never heard testing the wheels, as they were guar- 
anteed by the Divine Government to run until the 
end of the world. .Within the cars were mottoes 
like these : 

" And the ransomed of the Lord shall return 
and come to Zion with songs, and everlasting joy 
upon their heads ; they shall obtain joy and glad- 
ness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away." 
(Isa. xxxv. 10.) 

" Be of good cheer, for I have overcome the 
world." 

" Passengers please cling to their tickets." 

Some were singing, and all were happy in the 
Lord. 



88 



THE GREAT 



XIII. 
THE START. 

" All aboard /" cried the conductor, Mercy, who 
was beautiful in form and symmetrical in appear- 
ance. Again the clarion notes rang through the 
station, "All aboard." Then the silver notes of 
the bell were heard, and they feJl on the ears of 
the passengers like the sound of heavenly music. 

This train was very long and heavily loaded, but 
the gospel engine pulled it out of the station with 
perfect ease. Reaching the suburbs of the city, 
the countenances of the passengers somewhat 
changed, for they heard the sound of mighty thu - 
derings. A few were frightened, and stepping 
from the train walked back to the station. Timid 
started from his seat, but his fears were calmed 
when the train man smilingly said, "Be quiet, we 
never have any accidents on this line. The noise 
you hear is the thundering of Sinai. This will 
cease when we come in sight of Calvary, which is 
only a few miles ahead. Justice clamors loudly 
for satisfaction, and would, if possible, prevent 
the train from leaving the city. He would long 
ago have consigned the whole city to flames but 
for the interference of Mercy." A great cloud 
rolled down upon them from Sinai's summit, and 
the train was enveloped in smoke from the burning 
mountain. " Fear not," said the conductor, " I 
have met the claims of Justice in the sacrifice of 
Christ upon the cross—let not your hearts be 
troubled." 

Fearful leaped trom the train as it passed the 
mountain, and was struck by lightning. Instabil- 



CELESTIAL BAILEOAD. 



89 



ity declared lie would stop afc the first station. 
Some, yielding to temptation, lost their tickets, 
while a great number continuing steadfast in pray- 
er, came off victors. The train soon emerged from 
the smoke, the clouds rolled away, and there stood 
before them, in all its sacredness, Mount Calvary. 
Upon it was the cross, while over it in unspeaka- 
ble grandeur hovered the Shekinah. The Son of 
God stepped forth from the cloud of glory, ap- 
pearing only for a moment, as he said with all the 
tenderness of a Saviour's love, " Thy sins be for- 
given thee." 

Many expected to find Calvary a very tall moun- 
tain, towering above all the surrounding hills, and 
were a little surprised at its diminutiveness. It 
was the cross, the cloud of glory, and the Son of 
God that made that mountain great. While the 
literal Calvary is a small hill, yet it rises in super- 
lative grandeur above all other mountains of the 
earth on account of the scenes which have trans- 
pired on its sacred summit. The literal mountain 
is a small hill ; the spiritual mountain towers far 
above Sinai — far above the highest peaks of hu- 
man philosophy and worldly wisdom. On Calvary 
Christ fought the great battle with sin, death and 
hell. He cleared the field, and planted his own 
standard there. He filled the mountain with di- 
vine power for the elevation of a fallen world. 
Well may the Christian sing, 

" Jesus, the name high over all 
In hell, or earth, or sky." 

Engraved in the rock at the base of the mountain 
were these words : 

" For ye are not come tin to the mount that might be touched, 
and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and 

7 



90 



THE GREAT 



tempest, * * * But ye are come unto mount Sion and unto 
the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an in- 
numerable company of angels, to the general assembly and 
church of the first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God 
the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, 
and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood 
of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." — 
(Heb. xii. 18—24.) 

The thunders of Sinai revealed God's hatred of 
sin ; the scenes of Calvary, his love to man. Black- 
ness and tempest were symbols of grief ; but we 
are not come to these terrors of the law. Every 
good thing is enhanced by contrast. The light is 
brighter to eyes that have wept in darkness ; food 
is sweeter after we have known the pangs of hun- 
ger. In the words above quoted are held up in 
strong contrast the Old and New Dispensations. 
We are not come to the tempest of the law, but to 
the quietness and assurance of the gospel. 

In passing Calvary they also saw issuing there- 
from a stream of blood.- "That," said the con- 
ductor, "is 'the fountain opened for sin and un- 
cleanness.' It is written, 'Without the shedding 
of blood there is no remission.' (Heb. ix. 22.) 
Without this stream we should be consumed in at- 
tempting to pass Sinai. It quenches its fires, and 
renders it possible for the pilgrims to pass in safe- 
ty. Without this stream we could not reach the 
first station out from the city. Indeed, without 
the blood the line could never have been built, 
since there is no salvation only through the blood 
of the crucified one. Man cannot pardon himself; 
God cannot pardon by prerogative ; there is no 
provision in the law for his pardon ; Justice must 
be satisfied, and his claims are fully met in the 
sacrificial offering of the Son of God." 



CELESTIAL RAILKOAD. 



91 



The lines running parallel with this road began 
to diverge just before reaching Sinia, and the di- 
vergence increased until they were lost to sight. 
The competing roads, the Laodicean, Compromise, 
TJniversalist and Eomish, were unable to lay their 
tracks past Sinia; they were compelled to go 
around, while the Celestial line maintained a 
direct course to the City of God. 

Passing Calvary they were fast leaving the City 
of Sin in the distance, now gliding over a plain and 
again beside a mountain towering in its grandeur, 
and then along the banks of the Eiver of Life that 
sparkled in the clear sunlight. 

The first stop was at Peace Station. The depot 
was decorated with mottoes such as : 

" Now we have redemption through His blood, 
even the forgiveness of sins." — (Col. 1-13.) 

" Great peace have they which love thy law and 
nothing shall offend them." — (Psa. cxrx-165.) 

Here the conductor slipped into Transgress- 
or's hand a " white stone " with a " new name " 
written thereon. No more was he to be called 
Transgressor but Tranquil — and opening the Guide 
Book he was comforted by reading these words: 

" Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto 
you, not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let 
not your heart be troubled neither let it be afraid." 
—(John xiv-27.) 

Tranquil's burden was gone. He had found the 
peace which the City of Sin with all its boasted 
glory could not afford. 



92 



THE GREAT 



XIV. 

ENSNARED AND DELIVERED. 

It was nearly dark when the train entered the 
Plains of Enchantment and came to a station called 
Temptation. Seductio stood on the platform with 
a throng of enticing beings. By every possible de 
vice he sought to arrest the attention of the pas 
sengers and induce them to tarry for the night: 
" Come with us," said Seductio, " and on the mor- 
row we will show you the wonders of this beauti- 
ful region. Tribulation Gorge is a little ahead; 
the Plains of Persecution are still farther on; you 
need some recreation before passing these places; 
come and we will lead you among these winding 
paths, beside beautiful streams, and into forests 
where there are birds of the most beautiful plum- 
age, and of the sweetest song. Just over the brow 
of yon hill is a refreshing spring, while in yon 
arbor is to be heard the sweetest music that ever 
fell upon the ear of man." Some listened to the 
fairy tale; listening, they became charmed. Strange 
to say, among the number was Tranquil and his 
family. The longer they listened the more the 
desire crept over them just to stop for the night. 
Curiosity was aroused; there was no danger in 
sight. This was apparently a delightful region. 
On the platform were some of Tranquil's old 
friends, who had driven across the country from 
the Compromise Line to induce him to change 
routes. Others were there to urge him to return 
to the City of Sin. " A little variation from the 
rules of the company surely could not result in 
serious consequences," mused Tranquil. I can stop 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



93 



off and take the train on the morrow." He stepped 
to the platform. The conductor warned him con- 
cerning the promises of Seductio. "There are 
some trials ahead and yet remaining on board you 
will have joy in the midst of them. You will very 
much regret it if you stop over." As Tranquil 
and family stepped from the car Seductio and his 
associates hurried them away from the station. 
The bell rang; the train went, and with it Tran- 
quil's peace and happiness. Seductio and his 
talkative companions kept up an incessant chatter- 
ing in order to divert the minds of the wanderers. 
They led the little band farther and farther away 
from the station, picturing before them the pleas- 
ure they would experience in this region — pointing 
out the Palace of Pleasure, where gay beings could 
be seen constantly going in and out. In every 
direction were laughing groups taking deep drafts 
from the springs of worldly happiness. The Pal- 
ace of Pleasure was an imposing edifice. It had a 
gorgeous entrance adorned with statuary and 
brilliant with colored lights. Within was the most 
bewitching music. The exit of the palace was a 
dark, narrow way leading into fields where swine 
were kept. 

Tranquil's soul had once tasted of the Water of 
Life, and he could find nothing in this gay 
realm to satisfy him. 

After leading the little group on for some dis- 
tance, Seductio directed them over the brow of a 
small hill, where he said could be found a very re- 
freshing spring. As they moved on the atmos- 
phere grew very foul, and on reaching the summit 
instead of the promised spring they discovered an 
old graveyard, where lay many corpses still un- 



94 



THE GREAT 



buried, and on which birds of prey were feasting. 
These were some of Seductio's victims. Tranquil 
turned to look for his guide; he was gone. The 
group were left alone. Oh, how they had been de- 
ceived. Instead of beautiful birds singing in the 
forests around them, all manner of disagreeable 
beasts were there, which became visible only as 
one neared the woods. Everywhere were traps 
and snares skillfully laid. Tranquil picked up a 
fine looking package marked diamonds, only to 
find within coarse sand. Everything here was 
falsely labeled. How often the world promises as 
much, and performs as little as the tomb of 
Semiramis. After building a stately tomb she had 
this inscription placed upon it: "Whatsoever 
being shall succeed here and want money let him 
open this tomb and he shall have enough to serve 
his turn." Darius afterwards opened it and met 
with this sharp reproof : " Unless thou hadst been 
extremely covetous and greedy of filthy lucre thou 
wouldst not have opened the grave of the dead to 
look for money." These wanderers tried to retrace 
their steps, but every effort to find the Railroad 
Station only plunged them into greater confusion. 
On they went until reaching a dark valley they 
heard heavy groans and deep drawn sighs. Here 
Seductio appeared again, but this time with his 
mask removed. Tranquil begged their betrayer to 
conduct them back to the depot. " Ah," he said, 
" you are in my power. I never direct anyone from 
my dominions." Then with a fiendish smile he 
fled from their presence, and they saw him no 
more. Through the darkness they could just dis- 
cern a fearful chasm down which many had been 
hurled by the seducer of souls. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



95 



Seductio, on leaving them, again assumed his 
fairy garb and might be seen standing on the plat- 
form of the station, waiting to trap others. The 
night grew darker; the lost ones were without a 
guide and in a deceptive region; they became 
more and more bewildered. The distant whistle 
of the Celestial train only added to their sorrow 
and remorse. A storm of wind and rain broke upon 
them. They wandered into a thicket. The terrible 
burden of guilt came back upon them with all its 
crushing weight. They fell into a miry place. 
Loud and long they cried for help. A light ap- 
proached, whether friend or foe was coming they 
knew not. It might be some of their tempter's ac- 
complices to bury them alive in that horrid place. 
Monitor, attracted by their cries, came near and 
said: " What is the matter ? " 

" Oh, help us out quick; we are sinking, dying — 
oh — come — help — quick — oh — " 

Monitor reached down his strong arm and lifted 
them out one by one. 

Monitor. How came you here ? 

Tranquil. We started from the City of Sin by 
the Celestial Road; we listened to the siren voice 
of Seductio and lost our way; we tried everything 
in the City of Sin in order to find happiness and 
failed ; we left the city, obtained forgiveness, and 
now that is gone, and we are lost in this wilder- 
ness. Can you not direct us back to the station ? 

Monitor. Surely you did not obey the direc- 
tions of the Guide Book. This warned you that it 
was unsafe to stop off anywhere on the way. Leav- 
ing the principles of the doctrine of Christ; you 
should have gone on unto perfection. 

Tranquil. But Seductio said trials were ahead 
of us." 



96 



THE GREAT 



Monitor. Yes, but you have encountered greater 
ones by disobedience. Remaining on the train 
you would have had an omnipotent power to sus- 
tain you, and been in no danger. Now you are in 
a dangerous region. Seductio leads souls from the 
train, but leaves them to breast their own trials. 
He is Satan's agent, and like him will get us into 
trouble, but never help us out. The Celestial 
Company take good care of all its passengers in 
time of trial. Did Seductio accompany you to 
this bog ? 

Tranquil. Oh no — he left us some time since. 

Monitor. Yes, indeed. He dare not come 
very near my residence when I am at home. Had 
I been absent he would have plunged you all into 
that terrible chasm whence come those horrid 
groans. 

Tranquil. But can you not take us back to the 
station ? 

Monitor. The night is dark. The path is 
winding and the dangers are many. I will take 
you to my residence to tarry until morning. 

The forlorn company followed their guide to his 
home. Here they washed and partook of refresh- 
ments. During the evening Tranquil related his 
experience before leaving the City of Sin. He re- 
tired, but not to rest. The thought of his fall har- 
assed him all the night long. 

" I suppose the Conductor will receive us again," 
said he at the breakfast table. 

Monitor. Yes, upon a full confession of your 
folly and your pledge never to stop over again. It 
is written in the Company's by-laws: " If any man 
sin we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus 
Christ the righteous." (1 John, ii. 1.) This regu- 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



97 



lation is not intended as an apology for sin, or as 
an encouragement to one to continue in sin. This 
law is the outgrowth of God's mercy, — it is a pro- 
visional clause for any who may possibly yield to 
temptation. It is inserted as an encouragement 
to those who do fall not to stay away from 
Christ, but to return and seek his pardoning favor 
at once. 

Early in the morning Monitor and his repentant 
group, greatly mortified by their disobedience, 
could be seen returning to the station. Seductio 
and his accomplices, arrayed in their fine garb, 
were there, and of course jeered as they saw Tran- 
quil. The latter had learned by sad experience 
the truth of the prophet's words : " They that ob- 
serve LYING VANITIES FORSAKE THEIR OWN MERCY." 

(Jonah ii. 8.) They would return to him who said, 
" Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast 
out." (John vi. 37.) In attempting to board the 
train they were unexpectedly hindered by the 
conductor, who demanded their tickets. Many 
drove around Sinai and Calvary by private hacks, 
and would attempt to get on the cars here. Bribes 
were often tendered the conductor, but all these 
were promptly refused. The great projector of 
the road had declared, " He that entereth not by 
the door into the sheep-fold, but climbeth up 
some other way, the same is a thief and a robber." 
(John x. 1.) 

" "We have lost our tickets," said Tranquil, 
greatly embarrassed, " but we came up over this 
road, and listening to the voice of the tempter, 
stepped off. We are here to confess and forsake 
our sins, and beg to be received once more," and 
the whole family wept over their folly. 



93 



THE GREAT 



" Their tickets were stolen from them by Seduc- 
tio," said Monitor, who tarried to see them safe- 
ly off. 

" But will you not receive us ?" implored Tran- 
quil. 

Conductor. Certainly, if ever hereafter you will 
cling to the train and obey the rules." He pro- 
duced clean white tickets, underscoring the words, 
"Have faith in God." He also said, " Let this be 
a warning to you ; never listen to anything but a 
' Thus saith the Lord,' in regard to duty ; look 
ever to Jesus, and he will carry you through." 

Multitudes start well on the Christian journey, 
but listening to some siren song, are led away from 
the path of righteousness. The enemy of our 
souls will often outreason us. He will not leave 
until with determination we say, " Get thee be- 
hind me, Satan." The little child cries to go with 
its mother who is leaving home. She may try to 
appease it with play-things, but no sooner is 
she out of the door than baby cries again. This 
world cries to go with us, it will not be appeased. 
The only thing to do is to shut the door in its 
face, and go on. Peace returned to the hearts of 
this family, and they journeyed on with great de- 
light. 

XV. 

CELESTIAL SPBINGS. 

^ The region around Celestial Springs was luxu- 
rious with vegetation, and the landscape looked as 
fresh as a lawn after a June shower. There was 
no deception here. The pleasures were not fan- 
cied, but real. The water gushed clear from the 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



99 



great rocks on the right. On the left was the most 
beautiful valley the passengers had seen. Near- 
ing the station, angels thronged the air, while 
heavenly voices chanted the words, " Ho, every 
one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters." The 
train stopped ; the passengers refreshed them- 
selves with the cooling draughts, but were warned 
to remain near the station, as enchanted grounds 
lay beyond the great rocks. 

" This is the water of life," said the angel who 
guarded the spring ; "they that drink of these wa- 
ters shall live forever. Eighteen centuries ago, 
when the builder of this road passed this way, he 
opened this spring, and said he did it that the 
passengers 6 might have life, and that they might 
have it more abundantly.' (John x. 10.) Cards 
were given the passengers, containing an analysis 
of the water ; and instead of reading such a per 
cent, of iron, sulphur, magnesia, &c, they discov- 
ered that the water contained a large per cent, of 
love, peace, joy, with quite a trace of charity and 
long-suffering. " The springs," continued the an- 
gel, "that bring soul satisfaction, are not to be 
found on any other than the Celestial Line. Lov- 
ers of pleasure in the City of Sin have sometimes 
put their fortunes into one expensive draught, and 
failed to be satisfied. Many a man has put in his 
money, time, talent, health, body, soul — his all — 
and quaffed the cup only to be intoxicated with 
worldly pleasure for the hour, and then more dis- 
satisfied than ever, go reeling into eternal dark- 
ness. The Celestial Springs bring life and health 
and peace to the soul." 

At this station Tranquil bought the Celestial 
Hailroad Times. 



100 THE GREAT 

Celestial Railroad ^irries. 



LEAVING THE CITY. 
The Number of Passengers Leaving ihe City of Sin by the Various 
Routes Increasing Daily — The City Becomes More and More 
Corrupt — Life and Property are Unsafe — Rum t Romanism and 
ihe Devil are Engaged in a Bitter War Against Orthodox Chris - 
Hans — Mob Law Rules, and the City is Doomed— Some Infidels 
are Leaving by the Celestial Railroad. 

BY TELEGRAPH. 

[Special to the Celestial Railroad Times.] 
Dives' Fate. 

Some time since Dives left the city on the Compromise Line. 
His health was very poor. He tried in vain to carry his stocks 
and bonds over the River Jordan, but was compelled to leave 
them and they proved a rich plunder to the Compromise Com- 
pany. The last time heard from he was calling in vain for a 
drop of water to cool his parched tongue. He sent a message of 
warning to his 4 five brethren " who are living in the city. They 
would be glad to assist him, but are utterly unable to do it. 

The Gelessial Railroad 

Maintain their reputation for promptness, comfort and safety. 
Everything about the line is in perfect order, aDd they are suc- 
ceeding in carrying thousands to the City of God. 



Proselytus Killed. 

This officious gentleman attended a meeting last evening at 
Worldly Policy Church. On his way home he got into a row and 
was killed. Nobody mourns, or extends much sympathy to his 
surviving children. 



Special Correspondence. 

To the Pilgrims on the Celestial Line : 

Dear Friends : Having traveled nearly the whole length of 
the Celestial Railroad, permit me to write a few words of en- 
couragement. The prospect near the journey's end is cheering. 
I found religion just what I needed when young, and it has been 
growing better all the way. It is the life of the aged as they 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



101 



near the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Indeed, e< The path of 
the just is as the shining light that shinefch more and more unto 
the perfect day." 

I have passed through many trials, but have always proved 
God's grace more than sufficient. My head is gray, my form is 
bent, my sight is growing dim, but my spiritual vision sees 
clearly the things that are beyond. Be faithful unto death and 
all will be well. Faithful. 



—The Bridge on the Universalist Line broke through at the 
Kiver Jordan, and the passengers failed to reach the Celestial 
City. Dr. Universalis was on this train. 



As Tranquil finished reading, the train entered 
the Plains of Persecution. 

XVI. 

PLAINS OF PEESECUTION. 

On these plains the passengers saw giants roll- 
ing massive rocks up the side of the embankment, 
struggling in vain to place them on the track. 

Here dwelt the haters of God, and on every side 
could be heard their jeers and ribaldry. Some 
gnashed their teeth as the train moved on. The 
Nero spirit fired them, and gladly would they have 
burned the passengers at the stake. The same 
enemy worked here that tried before this to lure 
the passengers from the cars. Here unmasked he 
endeavored to terrify them. First coax, then 
drive, first entice, then ridicule, is the policy of 
Satan. If he cannot lure us from Christ he will 
open the batteries of hell on us, and it often re- 
quires more courage to face these than to face the 
cannon on the field of battle. A very large and 
powerful personage was seen moving among the 
motley throng. He was armed to the teeth and 



102 



THE GKEAT 



his eyes flashed fire. He was an old resident. 
Sometimes he took long naps, but when fully 
aroused the inhabitants quailed before him. His 
name was Civil Law. The wicked people would 
gladly have killed him. 

These enemies of Christ could not stop the train, 
but they would annoy travelers when Civil Law 
was asleep, or looking the other way. Here were 
Sabbath breakers, profane men, gamblers, &c. 
Here also were some professed Christians, Com- 
promise passengers, who had driven across the 
plain to see the Celestial cars pass. These joined 
in the persecution of the pilgrims. Among them 
stood the Angel of the Laodicean Church, and the 
Rev. Dr. Quietus. Professing to be Christ's, they 
persecuted his true followers. Jesus said, " Ex- 
cept your righteousness shall exceed the righteous- 
ness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no 
case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matt, 
v. 20.) The greatest danger to Christianity does 
not lie in the open attacks of infidelity, but in the 
inconsistent lives of too many who name the name 
of Jesus. The greatest opposers to a living Chris- 
tianity ore often found among Christianity's nom- 
inal friends. To the infidel who would seek to 
take advantage of these facts we submit the fol- 
lowing : 

Question. Did you ever see a counterfeit ten- 
dollar bill ? Answer. Tes. 

Q. Why was it counterfeited? A. Because it 
was worth counterfeiting. 

Q. Was the ten dollar bill to blame ? A. No. 

Q. Did you ever see a scrap of brown paper 
counterfeited ? A. No. 

Q. Why? A. Because it was not worth coun- 
terfeiting. 



CELESTIAL KAILROAD. 



103 



Q. Did you ever see a counterfeit Christian ? 
.4. Yes, lots of them. 

Q. Why was he counterfeited ? A. Because he 
was worth counterfeiting. 

Q. Was he to blame ? A. No. 

Q. Did you ever see a counterfeit infidel? A. 
No, never. 

Q. Why? 

In this plain once blazed the fires of the Inqui- 
sition. Fragments of stakes, fagots and thumb- 
screws lay scattered around. The Guide Book 
said, " Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ 
Jesus shall suffer persecution." (2 Timothy, iii. 12.) 
It also said, " Blessed are they which are perse- 
cuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the 
kingdom of heaven." (Matt. v. 10.) Sin and 
holiness are so antagonistic, that it is impossible 
to live a pure life without provoking opposition 
somewhere. The offense of the cross has not 
ceased and will not until the millenial glory dawns 
upon us. Early Christianity flourished under 
fierce opposition. Not until Constantine popular- 
ized it did it begin to decline. Persecution failed 
to uproot the church ; martyrs flocked around the 
stake like bees around a hive. The church to-day 
is endangered more by the encroachments of the 
world than was the early church under the shot 
and shell of persecution. The professed church 
has largely gone after the world. It is said that 
the equator is an imaginary line dividing the earth 
into two hemispheres. The difference between the 
professed church and the world is often something 
imaginary. The true church never marries the 
world. God has decreed an eternal separation 
between them, and what God has put asunder let 
not man join together. 



104 



THE GREAT 



The passengers who obeyed the regulations 
passed over the plains in safety. The disobedient 
were wounded by the fiery darts of the devil. The 
Gospel train is secure ; it cannot be thrown from 
the track, but alas for those who leap overboard, 
or who attempt to block its progress, Men may 
dash out their brains in attempts to demolish the 
gospel train, but it will move on, bearing faithful 
Christians safely to the City of God. 

xvn. 

PENTECOST. 

In passing the Plains of Persecution many of 
the passengers discovered an enemy within. They 
were still rejoicing in the pardoning grace of God, 
but found that the " carnal mind " was not en- 
tirely removed from their moral natures. Some 
yielded to this inward foe, lost their tickets, and 
forfeited their passage.. Others clung to their 
tickets and had peace, but under provocation it 
was sometimes disturbed by the risings of sin in 
the soul. Many were tempted to doubt their con- 
version, or whether indeed they were on the right 
train. The conductor, however, assured them that 
there was no mistake, and that after passing Pen- 
tecost Station, the inward foe would trouble them 
no more. He reminded them of the Saviour's 
words, " And I will pray the Father, and he shall 
give you another Comforter, that he may abide 
with you forever." (John xiv. 16.) 

" You will," said he, " after passing Pentecost, 
have a deeper and richer experience than ever. 
You may be called to endure greater trials and 
more reproach for the Master, but you will be 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



105 



abundantly repaid by the increase of peace and 
joy in the soul. At Conversion we enter the 
Holy Place, but at Pentecost we enter the Holy of 
Holies." 

There were many switches at Pentecost Station, 
but none of these side tracks reached the City of 
God. They ran off into a dense wilderness. No 
other route could pass this depot. Those who 
were afraid of the baptism of the Holy Ghost here 
left the main line and started off on other roads. 

Cultivation and human philosophy cannot purify 
the soul. Sin cannot be grown out of the heart. 
It must be burned out by Pentecostal fire. The 
train was running on the merits of the Son of God, 
and everything accomplished for the Spiritual 
welfare of the passengers was the direct result of 
the atoning blood. 

Determination said, " This route has brought us 
thus far in safety, and though it may be crucifying 
to the natural man to be purified by faith, I shall 
stay on board and look for and receive the gift of 
the Holy Ghost." 

Some say that we cannot pass this station. That 
it is impossible to be sanctified in this life. They 
maintain that the disciples were not converted until 
the day of Pentecost. I do not believe this. In the 
tenth of Matthew we read where Jesus sent the 
twelve out to preach and gave them power to heal 
the sick, cleanse the lepers, etc. If the disciples 
were not converted until the day of Pentecost then 
Jesus sent out unconverted men to preach, and 
gave unconverted men power over disease. I do 
not believe Jesus sent unconverted men to preach 
His gospel. 

"But," said Wavering Faith, "What do you 
8 



106 



THE GREAT 



make of Jesus' words to Peter." " And when thou 
art converted strengthen thy brethren." Do not 
these words prove that Peter was not converted 
then and must have been converted at Pentecost ? 

Determination. Oh, no; these words were 
spoken to Peter after he had fallen and denied his 
Lord. The literal rendering of these words is : 'And 
when thou art restored strengthen thy brethren.' 
I think we better hold on with unrelenting faith, 
cling tenaciously to our tickets and the same power 
that sanctified the disciples will sanctify us. 

Stability and others said amen to these words, 
but Wavering Faith took another route and never 
returned. 

In approaching Pentecost the faith of the pas- 
sengers was severely tested. As the train stopped 
in front of a beautiful depot, fire from heaven fell 
upon them, " And they were all filled with the 
Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues 
as the Spirit gave them iitterance." — (Acts ii, 4.) 
They were melted, moulded and fashioned after the 
Divine image. The great need of the church to-day 
is the power that melts and purifies. A heart 
melted under the pow T er of the Spirit will accom- 
plish much more than one that is not baptized. 
Wherever melted iron runs there goes a stream of 
light and heat. A heart under the influence of the 
Holy Ghost carries light and heat with it. Multi- 
tudes of Christians are like old silver coins with date 
worn off and face obliterated. The only remedy 
for them is to be melted over and remoulded, and 
they will come out shining for God. The Pente- 
costal fire melted out all tormenting fear from the 
hearts of the passengers. They also lost the fear 
of what death could do over them — and their hearts 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



107 



were thrilled with divine power and glory. They 
rode on through 

" A land of corn and wine and oil 
Favored with God's peculiar smile, 
And every blessing blest." 

It was a large place, where there was no straight- 
ness. (Job xxxvi. 16.) One poet in passing here 
said: 

" I've reached the land of corn and wine 
And all its riches freely mine, 
Here shines undimmed one blissful day 
For all my night has passed away." 

Some had almost expected that Pentecost meant 
chariots of fire, and a sudden translation to 
heaven. Daniel, with his anointed vision, looking 
down the ages, exclaimed : " Many shall be puri- 
fied, and made white and tried." — (Dan. xii, 10.) 
The prophet did not say they should be carried to 
heaven as soon as sanctified. No, they were to re- 
main awhile in this world, and shine as specimens 
of Christ's power to save. 

The peace experienced in this country was deeper 
and more abiding than that received at justifica- 
tion. It was peace unmixed with sin, peace like a 
river, while sometimes " joy unspeakable and full 
of glory" filled their hearts. They had reached 
the Niagara of Blessing. An endless panorama 
unfolded before them. There comes an end to 
wordly pleasure, but the gospel offers " pleasures for 
evermore." (Ps. xvi. 11.) The glory of the Gospel 
is that there is always more to follow. A man once 
gave Rowland Hill a hundred pounds to give to a 
poor minister. Mr. Hill, thinking it was too much 
to send all at once, forwarded five pounds with 
these words only in the envelope, " More to 



108 



THE GREAT 



follow." In a few days the good man received an- 
other letter containing five pounds with the same 
note, " And more to follow," and thus the messages 
continued coming until the whole sum was sent. 
Every blessing received from God is accompanied 
with this self-same message, "More to follow." 
The hundred pounds were soon exhausted. The 
riches of grace are unlimited. More to follow after 
conversion, more to follow after sanctification, more 
to follow to all eternity. 

A little girl had been reading the beautitudes 
and was asked which she should desire most to 
possess. She replied: " I would rather be pure in 
heart." When asked why, she said: "Sir, if I 
could but obtain a pure heart I should then possess 
all the other good qualities spoken of in this chap- 
ter." How true the answer of the child. Holiness 
is the great central truth of the Gospel of Christ. 

We live in an age when the professed church is 
substituting almost everything else for the power 
of the Holy Ghost. To-day men substitute quack- 
ery for learning, brass for gold, formalism, numbers 
good works, wealth and learning for that holiness 
without which no man shall see the Lord. Num- 
bers, learning, and wealth, are good if sanctified 
to God, and used to His glory. Otherwise they 
may prove a curse. See the locomotive standing 
on the track. It don't move. What is the trouble ? 
One says put on new drive wheels and it will run. 
But the driving wheels are perfect. Another one 
says put on a silver bell instead of a brass one and 
it will move, but it remains dead. Paint it a differ- 
ent color. But it does not stir. New drive wheels, 
silver bells, and new paint cannot take the place of 
fire and steam. So in carrying on church work. 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



109 



We may have everything else, but if we lack the 
power of the Holy Spirit, we fail in the most es- 
sential point. 

Two northern pitmen saw for the first time a 
locomotive. One said, " How is it to go, there are 
no horses, it is tons in weight. There are hundreds 
in the train. It will never move." At last it 
started, faster and faster it went until the man who 
said it would never go declared, " It would never 
stop." Seeing another train coming into the station 
he resolved to examine into it further. Finally he 
made a discovery. " Why, Jim, its the fire that's 
inside her." That is it. If churches are to fulfill 
their great mission there must be holy fire inside. 
Nothing else can take its place. 

XVIII. 

SUSPENSION BRIDGE AT TEIBULATICN 
GORGE. 

The word tribulation is from the Latin, tribulum, 
a Roman threshing instrument which separated the 
corn from the husks. Tribulatio was primarily the 
act of this separation. Trouble in itself has no puri- 
fying power, but it shows us our weakness and leads 
us to Christ. Tribulation, or threshing, loosens 
the chaff in our spiritual nature, grace blows it 
away. 

Tribulation Gorge was a fearful chasm, and un- 
less the passengers looked continually unto Jesus 
and held on by a persistent faith, they would be 
seized with a strong desire to leap overboard. Be- 
tween towering masses of rock thundered a muddy 
stream. Here and there were floating wrecks of 



110 



THE GEEAT 



bridges built by human philosophy. Washed up 
on the shore could be seen some of the fragments 
of the Compromise disaster. Many lines tried in 
vain at different points to construct safe bridges 
over this gorge and all failed, except the Celestial 
Company. As no buttresses could be placed in the 
middle of the stream, it had to be spanned from 
shore to shore. A divine hand had constructed 
the Suspension Bridge high over the roaring flood, 
and it was) absolutely safe. The immense cables 
supporting it were made out of the exceeding great 
and preciousj promises found in the Guide Book. 
As the train neared the station, at the end of the 
bridge, loud cries could be heard. 

" Change cars for the City of God !" " Shorter 
Route to Heaven !" " Suspension Bridge Unsafe !" 
" Carry you over by Ferry!" &c, &c. 

These criers furiously urged the passengers to 
take the roads or boats they represented. Stead- 
fast paid little attention. to the confusion. He had 
learned that one who is always changing his mind 
never makes progress in anything. Many do not 
believe one thing long enough to get saved. A 
tree that is transplanted every day will cease to 
grow. An individual who is constantly changing 
doctrines will fail to reach heaven. The great 
question is not whether a doctrine is beautiful or 
not, but is it true ? If it be true, we should stand 
by it despite opposition. 

Flattery addressed the passengers through the 
car windows. Fickle Mind listened and took an- 
other route, and was wrecked. 

Over the noise and confusion could be heard the 
clear voice of the Conductor saying, "Believe not 
every spirit, hut try the spirits, whether they are of 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



Ill 



God, because many false prophets are gone out into 
the world T (John iv. 1.) 

Flattery, Craftiness, and Sharp Eye, kept very 
busy. Flattery was most successful. He seemed 
to understand better how to touch the weak points 
in human nature. Smiling, he approached a win- 
dow where sat a young lady. He complimented 
her beauty and finally told her that neither her 
loveliness nor ability were appreciated on that 
train. 

He said that the Celestial Eoad was not very 
popular ; that she could reach heaven on a line 
which did not require so much self-denial. He 
succeeded in puffing her with pride, and soon 
Flattery could be seen assisting her to board a 
train headed in another direction. The Celestial 
passengers urged her to return, but this was diffi- 
cult, as Flattery kept a keen eye on his victims. 
If the enemy cannot ruin God's children by per- 
secution he will do his best to blow them up with 
pride. He approached a minister, an earnest 
w r orker. He reminded him of his increasing pop- 
ularity, of his ability as a speaker, and his intel- 
lectual endowments, and finally said, " If you will 
follow me I will lead you into greater favor and 
where you can be more instrumental in leading 
men to Christ." Flattery succeeded; the minister 
changed cars, but no sooner was he seated than 
the bell was pulled and the train whirled out of 
sight. 

Flattery tried Nehemiah of old and failed. 
"Would that all ministers had the same courage to 
resist this enemy. 

Craftiness affirmed that the bridge was unsafe, 
that it sagged when heavy trains passed over it. 



112 



THE GREAT 



He would take any who feared to trust it over on 
a ferry, after which they could again resume their 
journey on the Celestial Eoad. He had a fine 
looking boat lying at the dock and said he could 
carry over a multitude at once. The bridge, sus- 
pended over the awful gorge, hardly seemed safe. 
The train was heavily loaded, Distrust and a 
number of his relatives descended and took pas- 
sage on the boat. Craftiness steamed into the 
middle of the cataract and threw all his passengers 
into the angry waters. These doubted God's word 
and perished. 

Sharp Eye induced some to board his train and 
take what he termed a safer route. He said if the 
passengers succeeded in crossing the gorge in 
safety the country beyond was full of robbers. 
His car was no sooner loaded than he ran it off 
into a wilderness, and it was never heard from 
again. 

The bell rang. The Celestial train moved slowly 
upon the bridge. Some trembled, but the bridge 
never quivered. It was as firm as the solid rock 
of the road bed. While passing over the dreadful 
chasm, the angel of Death seized one of Tran- 
quil's little ones and hastened it on to the Heaven- 
ly world. The family wept, but their faith re- 
mained firm. They had one more treasure in the 
great city. Earthly subtraction became heavenly 
addition. They had read in the Guide-Book the 
words of Jesus, "In the world ye shall have tribu- 
lation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the 
world." (John xvi. 33.) The same book also spoke 
of some who had reached the City of God, of 
whom it was said, " These are they which came 
out of great tribulation and have washed their 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



113 



robes and made them white in the blood of the 
lamb." (Rev. vii. 14.) On reaching the other 
side, instead of finding a dismal realm, filled with 
wild beasts and robbers, they entered a beautiful 
region, a place of broad rivers and streams ; angels 
hovered around to strengthen them for the re- 
mainder of their journey. 

The train dashed on toward the Mountain of 
Difficulty, where the road seemed to terminate. 
Suddenly it shot into dense darkness, but the lamp 
which had been lit before reaching Safety Tunnel 
shone brightly, so the passengers had light in the 
darkness. Reason's lamp will not burn in the 
Tunnel of Trial, but God's children always have 
light in the darkness. Emerging in the clear sun- 
shine on the other side, they were once more re- 
assured of the security of their route. Faith in 
God will bring us safely through life's dark places. 

XIX. 

THE ANGEL OF LIGHT. 

This deceptive personage appeared at first alone, 
following the train, but his accomplices were soon 
with him. He was apparently arrayed in white. 
A close observer, however, could notice that his 
robes were very much soiled. " Holiness unto the 
Lord " was written on his brow. He met with his 
greatest success at the next depot — Sore Tempta- 
tion. The corruption of his nature was not easily 
discernible. He feigned great interest in the spir- 
itual welfare of the passengers. Approaching a 
tempted soul, he would often say, " I can lead you 
to an elevation in the realm of grace where you 
will have no temptation. Come with me and I 



114 



THE GREAT 



will guide you by a more direct route to the Holy 

Cit y-" 

Some he tried to puff with spiritual pride and 
self-conceit. He told others that the Lord having 
in the past tested their obedience in the renunci- 
ation of their idols, they might now with safety 
have them returned if they desired. " God saw," 
said this deceiver, " that in seeking him you were 
willing to part with these things for his sake, and 
now you may have them again and yet reach the 
City of God. See yon mountains ! There is nes- 
tled among those towering peaks a city where the 
inhabitants are saved above all temptation. By 
visiting it you may reach such an exalted state as 
never to feel the tempter's power again. You may 
also have restored anything you have forsaken 
and finally have an abundant entrance into 
heaven." Tranquil could not harmonize the state- 
ments of the smooth-tongued personage. How 
could a soul be saved from temptation so long as 
exposed to temptation ? The Guide-Book prom- 
ised no salvation from temptation outside the City 
of God. It offered salvation from sin on earth and 
eternal salvation from sin and temptation in the 
world to come. Again, how could one be required 
to separate himself from his idols at the " strait 
gate" in order to obtain salvation, and now have 
these things returned to him and retain any degree 
of saving grace ? 

Besides, he knew that the Master when on earth 
"was in all points tempted like as we are, yet 
without sin." (Heb. iv. 15.) He also read in the 
Guide-Book, " The disciple is not above his mas- 
ter, nor the servant above his Lord." (Matt. x. 24.) 
He concluded if any were saved above all tempta- 



CELESTIAL KAILROAD. 



115 



tion in this life, they must have reached a state of 
delusion — the devil's common. Salvation from sin 
is promised in this life, but salvation from tempta- 
tion pertains only to the heavenly world. 

Infallibility was subject to very strong impres- 
sions which he did not always stop to compare 
with the Guide-Book. Indeed, he read it but 
little, and seldom tried the spirit by its teachings. 
He claimed that inasmuch as he was led by the 
Spirit of God he could make no mistake. Follow- 
ing impressions without due discretion, he was 
easily captured by the Angel of Light, and left 
the train at his first invitation. Simple, Weak 
Mind, Self Exaltation and Self Complacency soon 
followed. Tranquil, who had discovered the cloven 
foot of the Angel of Light, warned all these of 
their danger, but they were hurried off to the city 
of False Illumination. The Angel soon returned 
to decoy others, but the news of the cloven foot 
discovery had spread through the train, and he 
met with poor success. The sky blackened with 
clouds ; night came on and the darkness was in- 
tense. The same lamps which burned so brightly 
in Safety Tunnel shone clearly now, while a sweet 
voice came from above saying, 

" Trust ye in the Lord forever, for in the Lord Je- 
hovah is everlasting strength." (Isa. xxvi. 4.) 

Evil angels thronged the air, their wings click- 
ing against the window panes. Angel of Light 
had sent them to drive those into despair whom 
he could not lure from the train. Eeturning day 
brought them to Sunrise Station. Here the birds 
sang sweetly, and the fields w^ere dressed in living 
green. The passengers felt they were nearing the 
City of God, and their hearts were greatly re- 



116 



THE GREAT 



freshed. On the steps of the depot stood a happy 
group chanting 

" Weeping may endure for a night, but joy 
cometh in the morning." 

These passengers were not victims of some de- 
lusion ; they were not chasing a shadow, but were 
pushing on after eternal life. 

Some time after, they learned by telegram the 
fate of those who followed the Angel of Light. 
They found the City of False Illumination en- 
closed by high walls. They lost their true spir- 
itual enjoyment. The Angel endeavored to coun- 
terfeit the joy of the Holy Ghost, and some did 
not awake from the delusion until the dying hour. 
Others soon discovered the trap into which they 
had been lured, and would have returned, but the 
gates were well guarded. They might by perse- 
vering effort have escaped, but it required great 
humiliation. Those who grew too restless were 
removed to lower parts of the city. The upper 
portion was reserved mostly for new victims. This 
deceiver did not visit any but the Celestial Road. 
He knew other lines did not reach the City of God, 
and there was no need of his troubling their pas- 
sengers. There were no revivals in this city, and 
no accessions only from the Celestial Line. Many 
under the garb of religion became the devoted ser- 
vants of Satan. The Guide-Book said, "The 
backslider in heart shall be filled with his own 
ways," and these poor souls realized this predic- 
tion to its full extent. 

"What multitudes to-day, who once were humble 
and teachable followers of Christ, now are filled 
with pride and self-exaltation, while professing as 
much grace as ever. In the lower part of this city 



CELESTIAL KAILROAD. 



117 



was a great gulf into which Angel of Light hurled 
many of his victims. Here he would drop his 
snowy wings, and standing before his victims in 
his true colors, would drive them into the fearful 
gorge. Across the chasm, on a large wall, were 
inscribed in flaming letters these words, " Never 
accept the voice of a man or an angel when it dis- 
agrees with the Word of the Lord." 

XX. 

LOOK OUT MOUNTAIN. 

This was composed of solid rock. King David 
in passing called it, " the rock that is higher than 
I." It had been up grade all the way, but the 
train now began to make a steeper ascent. It 
moved, however, with the same ease it did when 
leaving the City of Sin. As a traveler up the 
mountain side is able at each succeeding step to 
take in a wider range of objects, so the pilgrims to 
the Holy City could see farther over the landscape 
the nearer they approached their eternal home. 
They heard the sound of singing and then remem- 
bered that the Guide-Book said, " Let the inhab- 
itants of the Eock sing, let them shout from the 
top of the mountain." Reaching a high elevation 
the train stopped and the passengers were per- 
mitted to take a view of the grand scenery. No 
enchanted ground here. They had left that far 
below. At their right, masses of rock rose in awful 
grandeur. Below them on the left were clear 
rivers and streams, and beautiful hills and valleys. 

The mountain air was bracing to the pilgrims, 
and heavenly breezes fanned their brow. In ad- 
vance and far above them lay the City of God in 



118 



THE GREAT 



all its glory and grandeur. Between them and it 
was the Valley of the Shadow of Death. With 
field glasses they could see the angels on the walls 
beckoning them onward. The traveler can tell 
when he is approaching a city by the glimmer of 
light above it at night, or the smoke hovering over 
it by day. Above the City of God was no cloud 
of smoke, but a halo of divine glory. The shekei- 
nah was there. The spires and domes glittered in 
the eternal brightness. The inhabitants of Look 
Out Mountain said that the golden light was al- 
ways above the city. The Guide-Book declared, 
" And there shall be no night there, and they need 
no candle, neither light of the sun, for the Lord 
God giveth them light." (Rev. xxii. v.) The in- 
habitants also declared that no one could tell how 
high the Rock of Ages extended at their right. 
They told the passengers no mathematician had 
ever calculated its elevation. Pure Heart, who 
was an old resident, said to the passengers, " Un- 
less you can tell us the height of the love, mercy, 
and justice of God, we cannot tell you the height 
of this mass of towering grandeur. "When you 
have ascertained how far man has wandered from 
God, when you have measured the depths of hu- 
man depravity, aye, when you are able to tell the 
distance from the twelve gates of pearl St. John 
saw on the Isle of Patmos, down to the massive 
iron gates of hell, then, and not till then, can we 
tell the height of this Rock at your right. We 
know it reaches beyond the eagle's flight. Job 
said, ' There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and 
which the vulture's eye hath not seen ; the lion's 
whelps have not trodden it, the fierce lion hath 
not passed by it.' It is so high that death 



CELESTIAL EAILEOAD. 



119 



•and lost spirits cannot scale it. Angel of Light 
lias tried to go over it and failed. It reaches 6 far 
above all principality and power, and might and 
dominion and every name that is named not only 
in this world but also in that which is to come.' 
(Eph. i. 21.) In this mountain we are above the 
guilt of our sins. Yea, above the inbred corrup- 
tion of our souls. Certain plants and animals 
cannot live in a high atmosphere. If taken there 
they soon die. The soil and atmosphere are not 
congenial to their growth. Here are spiritual alti- 
tudes where the plants of sinful pride, envy, hatred 
and jealousy cannot live. The air is too pure. It 
is too near heaven. Up here are the Highlands 
of Full Salvation. Here is the purified Christian's 
dwelling place. During the summer's heat, the 
pleasure seekers leave the cities and go into the 
mountain resorts to be refreshed ; but as soon as 
the cool breezes of autumn begin to blow they re- 
pack their large trunks and return to the city for 
the winter. Why? Because December on the 
Mountain of Pleasure is not as pleasant as May. 
The soul that journeys into the region of holiness 
need not return when the cold and the storm come. 
The sanctified heart finds happiness here all the 
year round. Here the Christian escapes many of 
the storms that sweep in fury below, and when the 
tempest does come he catches the first riftings of 
the cloud before those in the valley, and prepares 
for it, and after it has passed, on him the first rays 
of the sun must fall. Sometimes pilgrims tremble 
on this rock, but it never trembles under them. 
The tempest of wrath that is coming bye and bye 
will sweep the valleys of Sodom and Gomorrah, 
but will not disturb the people along this route. 



120 



THE GREAT 



In the clay of judgment God will not soil his char- 
iot wheels by driving down into the City of Sin 
after his saints, but will send his chariot along the 
heights of the Kock of Ages for those who have 
traveled thither. From the spot where this train 
stands, Enoch and Elijah were translated, going 
above the Valley of the Shadow of Death." 

Here heavenly breezes fanned the brow of the 
passengers, and the air became fragrant with the 
blossoms of Paradise. 

Looking back they beheld, far in the distance, 
immense clouds of black smoke. Tranquil asked 
the conductor what it meant. Said he, " It is the 
City of Sin on fire ; their cup of iniquity is full, 
and their day of doom is come." 

The passengers on the Celestial Line had sent 
their treasures on before where they could not be 
burned. 

On the train sped through Praise Land, the 
passengers singing a " new song, even praise unto 
the Lord." Thankfulness is nearly a level land, 
but praise is the mountain summit. The Pharisee 
could stand on the corner of the street and say, 
" Oh God, I thank thee I am not as other men 
are," but it takes a soul redeemed by the blood of 
the Lamb to praise the Great I Am. 

XXI. 

THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH. 

This valley lay just without the Celestial City. 
It was not a gloomy place to the pilgrim. The 
sting of death, which is sin, had been removed 
from their hearts. The true Christian is the only 



CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 



121 



individual who can afford to close his eyes upon 
things visible, and he could not afford to leave 
this world if it were not that he opens his eyes 
upon a grand and eternal panorama in the world 
to come. He can with composure see his earthly 
house blown down, since the promise remains that 
he shall have part in the first resurrection. 

The brilliant light, beyond the valley, and over 
the Holy City, encouraged the passengers' faith. 
The train passed noiselessly through the narrow 
defile leading up to this valley. Earthly sounds 
recede from the ear, heavenly music is heard just 
beyond. The sun is veiled from sight. There is 
the sound of gurgling waters. It is the murmur 
of Jordan's cold and sullen stream. The train 
moved on over a majestic bridge, built upon rocky 
piers. The spray came up from the river on either 
side, enveloping the train. The passengers felt 
the damp, the chill, but the cars moved on in 
safety; the shadow of death passed over them, 
but it was only a shadow. The pilgrims were now 
rapidly approaching the " walls great and high." 
From the River Jordan a cloud of glory settled 
down over the train, while an angel went in ad- 
vance singing, " Lift up your heads O ye gates, 
and be lifted up ye everlasting doors, and admit 
this company of blood-washed pilgrims from the 
City of Sin." 

The gates opened wide, the train passed through 
in triumph and was saluted first by the great Re- 
deemer of men, the builder of the road, who hence- 
forth in a deeper sense than ever before should be 
to them " the chief among ten thousand and the 
one altogether lovely." Alighting, they received 
9 



122 THE GREAT CELESTIAL RAILROAD. 

their crowns, their palms, and commenced the song 
of " Moses the servant of God, and the song of 
the Lamb." Their dangers over, their trials passed, 
forever shut in with the Lord, Amen, so let 
it be. 



THE END. 



IHGERSDLL 




ANSWERED FROM THE BIBLE! 

Ihe only Beply to all his authorized works 
against the Bible ever published. By Rev. O. M, 
Owen, Utica, N. Y. Revised Edition. Fine 
Engraving of the Author. 

"Characterized by short, terse, and often ring- 
ing sentences of argument, sarcasm and wit."— 
Illustrated Christian Weekly, N. Y. 

" Sparkling with unsophisticated truth and Irre- 
sistible demonstration. " — Wesleyan Methodist. 

240 pages, cloth, gold stamp, 75 cts., post 
paid. Paper, 35 cts., post paid. 

Address Rev. O. M. Owen, Utica, N. Y. 



RUM! 

ROME! 

AND 

rtjust r 

A stirring pamphlet on the dangers which threaten us 

from 

ROMAHISM I 

BY EEV. O. M. OWEN. 
Clear type, fine paper, 16 pages. 

PRICE, 

Ten cents per copy, post paid. One dollar per dozen? 
post paid. 

Address, 

EEV. O. M. OWEN, 

TTTICA, N. Y. 



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